The tragic helicopter crash in the Hudson River on Thursday, April 10th, 2025, claimed the lives of six individuals, including a family of five from Spain. The incident has sent shockwaves through the city and beyond, leaving many heartbroken and searching for answers.
Michael Roth, CEO of New York Helicopter Tours, has offered his perspective on the events leading up to the crash. He stated that the pilot had radioed in, reporting a need for fuel and indicating an imminent landing. However, the helicopter never reached the designated landing zone, prompting a frantic search and the subsequent discovery of the wreckage.
The victims have been identified as Agustin Escobar, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal, and their three children. Escobar held a prominent position as the Global CEO of Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility, while his wife worked as a global commercialization manager for Siemens Energy. The family was on a vacation to New York City, a trip that tragically ended in the Hudson River.
Heartbreaking images emerged showing the family smiling in front of and inside the very helicopter that would later claim their lives. These photos serve as a stark reminder of the suddenness and devastating nature of the accident. The pilot’s identity has yet to be officially released.
Roth expressed his profound grief and devastation, emphasizing his role as a father and grandfather, and the deep impact the loss of the children on board has had on him. He stated that he learned about the crash from a worker at the company’s heliport before a pilot confirmed the tragic news by spotting the submerged helicopter.
While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, Roth shared his observations from video footage of the incident. He noted the absence of the main rotor blades on the helicopter in the video, speculating about potential causes, such as a bird strike or main rotor failure. The helicopter split in half during the descent, with the fuselage and propellers falling separately into the river. Witnesses reported a loud boom upon impact.
Authorities are currently recovering debris from the river as the investigation into the cause of the crash continues. The recovery operation is expected to resume, with divers returning to the scene to retrieve additional wreckage. The loss of life has left the city in mourning, a solemn reminder of the unpredictable nature of even routine activities. The families of the victims will undoubtedly need support and time for healing in the wake of this tragedy.
