Helicopter crashes in Hudson River near Pier 40 leaving one confirmed fatality
New York, US — One person has died after a helicopter plunged into the Hudson River near New York City’s West Side Highway and Spring Street, according to local authorities.
The fatal crash occurred near Pier 40, a high-traffic area adjacent to the Holland Tunnel entrance.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed the recovery of two individuals from the water. While one fatality has been reported, the condition of the second person remains unknown.
Both land and marine emergency units were dispatched swiftly to the scene by the New York Fire Department (FDNY) following distress reports.
Hudson River Crash Caught on Video as Police Launch Rescue Operation
Footage circulating online shows a helicopter partially submerged in the Hudson River, surrounded by multiple police boats and rescue personnel. Officers were also observed coordinating from the West Side Highway.
The BBC has not independently verified the footage, but CBS News, the BBC’s US partner, confirmed the helicopter went down between Manhattan and Jersey City.
Emergency Crews Respond to Hudson River Helicopter Incident
The FDNY stated that land and marine crews responded to the crash site immediately after the report. The aircraft reportedly went down just off the waterfront adjacent to Spring Street and the busy Holland Tunnel corridor.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the crash, and it remains unclear how many people were onboard at the time. Federal aviation officials are expected to investigate.
Public Watches in Shock as Helicopter Sinks Near Pier 40
Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud sound before seeing the helicopter descending into the water. Bystanders along the Manhattan shoreline and near Pier 40 captured the chaotic aftermath as emergency boats raced toward the wreckage.
Officials have cordoned off parts of the West Side Highway while the recovery and investigation efforts continue.
