A tragedy that loots the community
A helicopter accident has killed an entire family, including two prominent Siemens executives, Mercè Camprubí and Agustín Escobar, as well as their three children, 11, 5 and 4 years old. The news has left the community in a state of shock, and authorities have confirmed that the helicopter pilot also lost his life in the incident.
The accident and its circumstances
The incident occurred at four o’clock in the afternoon (local time) while the family flying over New York aboard a tourist helicopter. Only 15 minutes after taking off from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, the apparatus fell to the Hudson River, after traveling about six kilometers. Early investigations indicate that the helicopter lost control of Hoboken, with testimonies that have captured impactful images showing the propellers taking off the rifle.
Investigation
Authorities are currently working to determine the causes of this tragic accident. Rescue teams, including New York and New Jersey police divers, have quickly mobilized to deal with the situation and recover victims.
Condolences and institutional support
The President of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa, has expressed his most sincere condolences to the affected family, recognizing the harshness of the loss. From Milan, where he is on an official mission, he has commented that “life can be cruel and unexpected.” Island added that American authorities have expressed their concerns and commitment to investigate the incident.
Support messages
The Mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, has also shared his pain through Instagram, describing the tragedy as “an experience that leaves us without words” and sending their support to family members in these hard times. At the same time, the President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez, described the accident as “an unimaginable tragedy”, reflecting the feeling of loss that has affected many.
Reflections on Air Safety
This tragedy reminds us of the importance of safety on tourist flights. The fall of a helicopter in the middle of the plenary seeks to emphasize the need for strictest regulations and rigorous monitoring of the maintenance of aerial vehicles. Authorities should ensure that incidents like this do not happen again, to protect the lives of passengers and their families.