U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez (D-8) is reflecting on the “absolute tragedy” of the fatal Hudson River helicopter crash yesterday afternoon that claimed the lives of six people.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“[Yesterday’s] helicopter crash in the Hudson River is an absolute tragedy. The loss of six lives is horrific, and I join our community and the victims’ loved ones in mourning this heartbreaking loss,” Menendez began in a statement.
“Our office is in regular communication with officials at all levels of government who are involved in responding to this tragedy. And we will continue to engage with the NTSB as they work throughout the coming weeks to identify the causes of the accident.”
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop wrote on X last night that NYPD and New Jersey State Police would utilize dive operations to recover major parts of the aircraft, previously mentioning that the deceased were a family from Spain.
He also mentioned that the family was celebrating the mother/wife’s 40th birthday.
ABC News reported that Agustin Escobar, his wife, Merce Camprubi Montal, and their children, ages 4, 5 and 11, died in the crash along with the 36-year-old pilot, citing law enforcement sources who spoke under the condition of anonymity.
“We must also acknowledge how much worse this could have been given how close the crash was to the shoreline. Since coming to Congress, I have heard from countless residents who are concerned about non-essential helicopter traffic over our communities. We have continuously pushed the FAA to address these dangerous conditions and the role that helicopters play in this challenge,” Menendez continued.
“As we learn more details of the cause of this accident, we will continue to partner with air safety officials to ensure that we prevent future tragedies and safeguard our communities from the pervasive issue of non-essential helicopter traffic in the region. This is a sad time for our community and a painful reminder of the work that remains to keep our communities and skies safe. But we are committed to seeing it through.”
