Tragedy in the Hudson: Siemens Executive and Family Among Six Killed in New York Helicopter Crash
As investigations continue into the tragic helicopter crash over the Hudson River, the grieving family of the victims has shared a heartfelt tribute, remembering their loved ones and calling for privacy amid the global attention surrounding the incident.
The victims included Agustín Escobar, the Spanish president of Siemens Mobility, his wife Merce Camprubí Montal, and their three young children—ages 4, 5, and 11—as well as the 36-year-old pilot. The family had only just arrived in New York earlier that day for what was meant to be a joyful vacation, reportedly in celebration of one of their children’s birthdays.
A Possible Cause: Mechanical Failure
Aviation experts believe a catastrophic mechanical issue may have caused the fatal crash. According to aviation analyst Julian Bray, a malfunctioning part known as the “Jesus nut”—a critical bolt that secures the helicopter’s rotor assembly—may have failed mid-flight.
“If this component breaks or isn’t secured properly, the entire rotor can detach,” Bray explained to The Sun. Video footage appears to support this theory, showing the rotor blades spinning away from the aircraft just before it plunged into the water near Pier 41.
Former military pilot Jim Brauchle told DailyMail.com that the rotor likely struck the helicopter’s tail, causing it to break apart in mid-air. Another aviation attorney, Justin Green, stated: “They were dead as soon as it happened. There’s no sign they had control. It’s like a rock falling.”
Heartbreaking Final Moments
Photos taken shortly before the flight show the family smiling and excited for their aerial tour of the city. In one image, Escobar’s youngest child gives a thumbs-up beside his father, while another photo shows a child strapped in near the pilot, laughing with joy.
Witnesses described a loud, explosive noise moments before the crash. One bystander said it sounded like a “sonic boom.” Others watched helplessly as the helicopter broke apart mid-air before slamming into the Hudson.
Emergency services recovered all six victims from the water. Four were pronounced dead at the scene, and two later died in the hospital, according to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Family Tribute
On Friday, Joan Camprubí Montal, a relative of the victims, shared an emotional letter signed by 19 family members from the Camprubí and Escobar families.
“The Escobar-Camprubís will always be among us, with their joy and vitality. We love you, family.”
Accompanying the message was a family photo taken in Times Square. The post expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and stated, “These are very difficult times, but optimism and joy have always characterized our family.”
The family also found comfort in knowing their loved ones passed together and announced they would be traveling to New York to bring the bodies home.
“They have left together, leaving an indelible mark among all their family, friends, and acquaintances.”
They also requested privacy, especially in light of the involvement of three children and the widespread media attention.
A Life of Leadership and Legacy
Agustín Escobar, originally from Puertollano, Spain, was a well-respected executive with over 27 years at Siemens, most recently serving as CEO of its global rail infrastructure division. He was also Vice President of the German Chamber of Commerce for Spain.
His wife, Merce Camprubí Montal, worked at Siemens Energy as a manager in digitalization and commercialization. The family resided in Barcelona, Spain.
Government leaders from Catalonia and Castilla-La Mancha expressed condolences, calling the loss “devastating” and honoring Escobar’s contributions to the community and business world.
Ongoing Investigation
The helicopter, a Bell 206, reportedly signaled it was low on fuel just minutes before the crash. However, experts agree that fuel shortage was likely not the primary issue. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continue to examine what caused the rotor failure.
Michael Roth, owner of New York Helicopter, the company operating the tour, confirmed the aircraft was due for refueling but said the main rotor blades were missing in the crash footage—a highly unusual and alarming detail.
“I’ve never seen anything like that in over 30 years,” Roth told The New York Post.
A History of Tragedy
This is not the first fatal helicopter incident over New York waters. In 2018, five people died after a crash in the East River when a tail section accidentally engaged the fuel shutoff valve. That crash, like this one, was captured on video and sparked renewed calls for safety measures in aerial tourism.
Final Thoughts
The tragic loss of the Escobar-Camprubí family has left a void not only in their community but also in the hearts of people around the world. As the investigation continues, their legacy of joy, achievement, and family unity endures.
Please SHARE this story with your friends and family to honor the memory of those lost and spark thoughtful conversations about safety, legacy, and love.
