BREAKING: Lives Lost in Devastating Hudson River Helicopter Crash

A devastating helicopter crash shook the Hudson River Thursday afternoon, leaving multiple people dead and a community in mourning.

The aircraft, carrying six individuals—including three children—plunged into the water near the Jersey City side of the Hudson around 3:30 PM Eastern on April 10. Officials confirmed the helicopter had taken off from Lower Manhattan and was flying a sightseeing tour with tourists from Spain.

What We Know So Far

According to reports, the helicopter was carrying:

One pilot
Two adult passengers
Three children

Tragically, initial reports indicate that at least five of the six individuals on board have died. While this has yet to be officially confirmed by law enforcement, recovery operations have taken place, and the aircraft is now submerged.

Eyewitness Accounts

One witness told ABC7 Eyewitness News:

“I heard a loud snap … I looked over … and I could see a helicopter falling on its side and splash into the water. I didn’t see anyone come out.”

Another witness told NBC New York that she saw one of the helicopter’s propellers detach mid-air, moments before the crash. The horrifying moment was caught on camera by a bystander. Viewer discretion is advised.

Hudson River Helicopter crash @fox5ny @ABC7 @NBCNewYork @CBSNewYork @njdotcom @News12NJ @CNN @cnnbrk

Credit: Bruce Wall pic.twitter.com/CVy249wApx

— SangriaUltra (@xpertcommander) April 10, 2025

>Response from Officials

Emergency responders from the FDNY, NYPD, and Coast Guard rushed to the scene. Vessel traffic was halted and a safety zone was quickly established around the crash site. Debris and flotation devices could be seen in the river, as recovery efforts were underway.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement asking residents to avoid the area near Pier 40 while first responders work:

“The team is on the scene at the heartbreaking and tragic crash in the Hudson River. @FDNY and @NYPDnews are assisting first responders closer to the New Jersey side of the river.”

Investigation Underway

At 4:30 PM, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the aircraft involved was a Bell 206 helicopter, now fully submerged. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation and provide updates as more information becomes available.