The brother of a woman killed in a devastating helicopter crash over New York’s Hudson River has shared an emotional tribute to his sister and her family. Merce Camprubi Montal, her husband Agustín Escobar, and their three young children—aged 11, five, and four—perished alongside pilot Sean Johnson when their sightseeing helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday afternoon.
Joan Camprubí Montal traveled from Spain to New York to identify his sister’s body and lay a wreath near the crash site. Speaking at a press conference, he remembered his loved ones by name, vowing, “We will never forget you. We will keep your smile alive every day of our lives.” His words captured the profound loss felt by those who knew the Barcelona-based family.
The helicopter, operated by former Navy SEAL Johnson, reportedly split in two midair before plunging into the river. Witnesses described hearing a “sonic boom” before seeing the aircraft break apart. The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the cause of the tragedy.
