A devastating helicopter crash in New York City occurred when a sightseeing tour ended in tragedy over the Hudson River. The incident resulted in the deaths of all six individuals aboard, including a Spanish family of five and their American pilot.
Details of the Hudson River Helicopter Crash
The Bell 206L-4 LongRanger IV helicopter, operated by New York Helicopters, took off for a routine sightseeing tour around 3:15 p.m. on April 10, 2025. Shortly after departure, the aircraft broke apart midair and plunged into the Hudson River near Jersey City. Emergency responders arrived promptly, but tragically, all six occupants were confirmed dead.
Victims Identified
The victims included Agustín Escobar, CEO of Siemens’ rail infrastructure division in Spain; his wife, Mercè Camprubí Montal; and their three children. The family was visiting New York City to celebrate one of the children’s birthdays. The pilot, Sean Johnson, was an experienced aviator with a commendable safety record.
Possible Cause: ‘Jesus Nut’ Failure
Preliminary investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) suggest that a mechanical failure involving the “Jesus nut” may have caused the crash. This critical component connects the helicopter’s main rotor to its mast. A failure could lead to rotor detachment, resulting in catastrophic loss of control. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the rotor blades separate from the helicopter before it descended into the river. The NTSB is continuing its investigation to confirm the exact cause.
Community Mourning and Reactions
The tragedy has deeply affected communities both in New York and Spain. The Jesuits of Sant Ignasi school in Barcelona, where the children attended, expressed profound sorrow. Siemens CEO Roland Busch also paid tribute to Escobar and his family. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez extended condolences, highlighting the international impact of the incident.
Safety Concerns and Company Response
The helicopter involved had previously been featured in a company safety video, raising questions about maintenance practices. Following the crash, New York Helicopters suspended operations pending the outcome of the investigation. The incident has prompted discussions about the safety protocols of sightseeing flights and the importance of rigorous maintenance checks.
Ongoing Investigation
The NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash. Key components, including the “Jesus nut,” are being examined to determine if mechanical failure was the definitive cause. The findings will be crucial in preventing similar tragedies in the future.
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