A devastating helicopter crash in New York City on April 10, 2025, claimed the lives of six people, including a top Siemens executive, Agustín Escobar, his wife Mercè Camprubí Montal, and their three young children. The family had just arrived from Barcelona for a sightseeing trip when the helicopter plunged into the Hudson River near Pier 40.
The aircraft, a Bell 206L-4 LongRanger IV operated by New York Helicopters, departed from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport at 2:59 p.m. Around 16 minutes into the flight, witnesses reported the helicopter spinning uncontrollably, emitting smoke before it disintegrated midair and crashed into the water. All passengers and the pilot were killed on impact.
Escobar was the CEO of Siemens Mobility’s Rail Infrastructure division and president of Siemens Spain. His sudden death sent shockwaves through the global business community, with Siemens releasing a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of a visionary leader.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the incident. Preliminary reports suggest a catastrophic mechanical failure, as parts of the helicopter, including the main rotor and tail boom, were found separated from the main body.
This tragic accident has raised renewed concerns over the safety of urban helicopter tours, especially in busy metropolitan areas like New York City. City officials and federal agencies are now facing mounting pressure to review safety regulations and oversight for tourism-related flights.
