Six people died after a helicopter crashed into the Hudson River off New York City. Here’s what we know
Six people have reportedly died after a helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near midtown Manhattan.
Just after 3 p.m., a Bell 206 LongRanger crashed into the river that divides New York City from New Jersey. The helicopter appeared to have taken off from Manhattan, according to FlightRadar24.
Here’s what we know about the crash:
A helicopter crashed into the Hudson River with a pilot, two adults and three children on board, according to local authorities. The flight was believed to be a tour charter, NBC New York reports.
As of 5 p.m. Thursday, all six people have been pulled from the water, and all six people are dead, the Associated Press reports.
Videos posted to social media showed the helicopter falling into the water, overturning as it was submerged.
Visibility over the river wasn’t substantially impaired, the AP reports, and the water temperature is at 45F.
The crash happened in the Hudson River, which divides New York and New Jersey. The helicopter landed in the water closer to New Jersey, off the shore of Jersey City and Hoboken.
New York Police Department officials said emergency responders were gathered near Pier40 on the West Side Highway and Spring Street in Manhattan.
The identities of the pilot, two adults and three children on board are unknown.
Fox News reports the family was visiting from out of town.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams urged residents to avoid the area.
“The team is on the scene at the heartbreaking and tragic crash in the Hudson River…Please avoid the area near Pier 40 in Manhattan in the meantime,” he said.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also said he’s aware of the disaster: “I have been briefed by law enforcement on the tragic helicopter crash in the Hudson River close to New Jersey. We are supporting the emergency response effort through the @NJSP, @PANYNJ, and local first responders.”
