New York City, April 11 — In a tragic and shocking incident, a sightseeing helicopter carrying tourists plunged into the East River late Saturday afternoon, killing all six people on board. Among the victims was an entire family from Spain, who had arrived in the city just days earlier for what was supposed to be a dream vacation.

Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene as the helicopter, operated by Liberty Tours, appeared to lose control before nose-diving into the water near Roosevelt Island. The aircraft quickly became submerged, with bystanders and first responders rushing to the scene in a desperate attempt to rescue those trapped inside.

The pilot, who managed to escape and was rescued by a nearby boat, is currently in stable condition and cooperating with investigators. Early reports suggest a possible mechanical failure, though the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation by the FAA and NTSB.

Authorities confirmed the victims included a Spanish couple and their two teenage children, along with two other international tourists. Their identities are being withheld pending notification of extended family members.

Mayor Eric Adams called the incident “an unimaginable tragedy” and vowed a full investigation. “What was meant to be a joyful experience turned into a nightmare,” he said during a late-night press briefing.

Safety concerns have long surrounded NYC’s helicopter tourism industry, and this incident is expected to intensify scrutiny over regulation and oversight.