Six Dead in Hudson River Helicopter Crash in New York City (Video)

Authorities say a helicopter has crashed in the Hudson River off Manhattan

Six people were killed on Thursday when a helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near Manhattan, according to a source familiar with the incident.

The crash occurred at approximately 3:17 p.m., when emergency services received reports of a helicopter in the water. The aircraft came down just off the Manhattan waterfront, near a long maintenance pier adjacent to one of the ventilation towers for the Holland Tunnel.

Videos captured at the scene showed the helicopter submerged and flipped upside down in the river, with multiple rescue boats circling the wreckage. The New York City Fire Department dispatched rescue units immediately and began operations at the site. Fire trucks and emergency response vehicles were also seen lining the streets nearby with lights flashing as efforts unfolded.

The skies above Manhattan are frequently busy with both private and commercial air traffic, including helicopters offering executive, commuter, and tourist flights. Several helipads across the city facilitate this high volume of aerial activity.

New York City has experienced several high-profile aviation accidents over the years. In 2009, a sightseeing helicopter collided with a small plane over the Hudson River, resulting in nine fatalities. In 2018, five passengers were killed when a charter helicopter conducting an “open door” tour crashed into the East River.

Thursday’s incident marks another tragic chapter in the city’s history of helicopter-related accidents. Further details on the cause of the crash and identities of the victims have not yet been released as investigations continue.