Six people died when a helicopter crashed into the Hudson River Thursday afternoon, a person familiar with the situation told CBS News.
The incident happened at roughly 3:15 p.m. Thursday near Jersey City, not far from River Drive South and Newport Parkway, near the Water’s Soul sculpture.
Three adults and three children were on board, according to the NYPD. All of the bodies have been recovered, a person familiar with the situation told CBS News.
Image obtained by CBS News New York 
Emergency responders were gathering on both sides of the river. On the Manhattan side, the NYPD was mobilizing on the West Side Highway and Spring Street. New York City Mayor Eric Adams was on the scene.
The helicopter involved was a Bell 206, according to the FAA. It took off from Lower Manhattan, according to the New York City’s mayor’s office. The FAA and NTSB are investigating the crash.
The helicopter apparently came apart in mid-air and came plummeting down. Debris could be seen flying from the helicopter as it plunged into the river.
Video appeared to show flotation devices on the helicopter’s landing gear in the water. The main cabin of the helicopter was not visible.
Prior crashes on the Hudson River
In 2019, a helicopter crashed into the Hudson River shortly after refueling. The pilot was the only person on board at the time and suffered minor injuries.
In 2016, a vintage plane went down during a celebration for the American Airpower Museum. The pilot was killed.
The most well-known crash was the “Miracle on the Hudson” in January 2009 when a plane struck birds shortly after taking off from LaGuardia Airport. Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger managed to land the plane on the river, saving the lives of 155 passengers and crew members.
Check back soon for more information on this developing story.
Pat Milton
contributed to this report.
Leave a Reply