Tragedy Over the Hudson
On April 10, 2025, a devastating helicopter crash rocked New York City. A Bell 206, operated by the New York Helicopter Company, plunged into the Hudson River during a tourist sightseeing flight.
A Family Lost
Aboard were five members of a Spanish family visiting the city:
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Agustín Escobar, CEO of Siemens Spain
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His wife, Mercè Camprubí Montal, a global marketing manager at Siemens Energy
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Their three children: Víctor (4), Mercedes (8), and Agustín (10)
The family tragically perished, along with the pilot, Sean Johnson.
Timeline of the Crash
The helicopter departed from Lower Manhattan’s heliport at 2:59 p.m.
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot requested fuel but received clearance to continue.
By 3:17 p.m., all contact was lost.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses reported a loud explosion. They saw the helicopter’s rotors and tail detach midair.
The aircraft then split apart and crashed upside down into the Hudson.
The Aftermath
Horrifying images of the wreck quickly spread across social media.
Authorities—NTSB and FAA—launched an immediate investigation.
However, they faced setbacks. The crash destroyed flight recorders and onboard cameras. Key components, including the main rotor and transmission, remain missing.
Expert Insight
Aviation lawyer and former pilot Justin Green reviewed footage.
He suggested a catastrophic mechanical failure—possibly the main rotor struck the tail, causing total loss of control.
Remembering the Escobar-Camprubí Family
Agustín Escobar, from Puertollano, held a prominent role at Siemens Mobility.
Mercè Camprubí, part of a respected Catalan business family, had a global career.
The family came to New York to celebrate birthdays and share special moments.
A Final Image
One of the last known photos shows each family member wearing identical yellow Heli vests—life jackets made for helicopter flights.
Tragically, the vests didn’t inflate or offer protection due to the crash’s force.
Messages of Grief and Love
Mercè’s brother, Joan Camprubí Montal, posted a touching tribute:
“These are very difficult times, but optimism and joy have always characterized our family…”
Social media flooded with condolences:
“Heartbroken and saddened by this news…”
“A terrifying and devastating experience… deepest condolences to their family.”
Renewed Safety Concerns
This tragedy has reignited concern over tourist helicopter safety in New York.
It follows another recent crash involving a private plane near Copake, which also claimed lives.
A Lasting Memory
As investigations continue, the Escobar-Camprubí family and pilot Sean Johnson remain deeply missed—their memory honored by all who knew them.
