A helicopter crash near New York City on Thursday resulted in the deaths of a Spanish couple and their three young children, as well as the pilot. The family was on vacation when the incident occurred, which happened just a day before their daughter’s ninth birthday.
Spanish officials identified the deceased husband as Agustín Escobar and the wife as Mercè Camprubí Montal. Their children, Agustín, 10, Mercè, 8, and Víctor, 4, were also confirmed dead. The Camprubí family noted that Mercè would have turned 9 on Friday.
The tragedy has been felt in Barcelona, where the family resided. Salvador Illa, the governor of Barcelona, described them as a well-known family, highlighting Mr. Escobar's executive role at a large international company and Ms. Camprubí's connections to a prominent family, including two relatives who were former presidents of the Barcelona Football Club.
Mr. Illa expressed his sorrow over the accident, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter accident.” The helicopter was on a tour of New York City when it crashed into the Hudson River.
According to New York City’s police commissioner, Jessica S. Tisch, two of the passengers were rescued from the water but later succumbed to their injuries. The pilot has not been identified, and the cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
Mr. Escobar, 49, originally from Puertollano, was recognized as a "favorite son" of the region earlier this year. Mayor Miguel Ángel Ruiz of Puertollano expressed the city’s grief, stating that they mourn the loss of one of their most distinguished citizens.
Mr. Escobar led Siemens’ rail infrastructure division from Berlin and had previously served as the chief executive of Siemens Spain. Siemens expressed its deep sadness regarding the deaths in a public statement.
Ms. Camprubí held an executive position with Siemens Energy, which has not publicly commented on her passing. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez referred to the crash as “an unimaginable tragedy” and extended his condolences to the victims' families.
Government officials in Spain indicated that the family’s remains would be repatriated once a New York judge grants permission for Spanish authorities to proceed.