A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on April 10 when a sightseeing helicopter ride over New York’s Hudson River ended in catastrophe. Among the six lives lost were Agustín Escobar, a distinguished executive at Siemens Mobility, his wife, Merce Camprubí Montal, and their three children. The family, visiting from Barcelona, had embarked on the short aerial tour to admire the city’s skyline when their Bell 206 helicopter reportedly lost its rotors and crashed into the river near Manhattan’s Pier 40 around 3:15 PM. The pilot, also on board, did not survive.
Photographs taken shortly before the flight now serve as haunting reminders—images of the family smiling in front of the helicopter, completely unaware of the tragedy that lay ahead. Four of the six occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining two were rushed to the hospital in critical condition but sadly succumbed to their injuries shortly after.
Agustín Escobar had recently taken on the role of Global CEO of Rail Infrastructure at Siemens, a position he approached with vision, humility, and a strong sense of duty. Known for his calm leadership, strategic mind, and genuine kindness, Escobar was revered not only for his professional accomplishments but for the deep devotion he had for his family. His wife, Merce Camprubí Montal, held a senior leadership role at Siemens Energy and was admired for her intelligence, poise, and commitment to advancing innovation in the energy sector.
Heartfelt tributes have poured in from friends, colleagues, and institutions across the globe, remembering the couple as exceptional professionals and loving parents. Their children, whose lives ended far too soon, were lovingly described as vibrant, kind, and inseparable—beacons of joy within their family.
The impact of this loss has rippled far beyond personal circles, deeply affecting both corporate communities and international audiences. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed public condolences, calling the event an “unthinkable tragedy” and honoring the family’s contributions and spirit.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into what caused the mechanical failure that brought down the helicopter. Officials are analyzing flight records, maintenance history, and eyewitness accounts in an effort to determine how a routine tour turned so deadly. As the inquiry continues, the memory of the Escobar-Camprubí family remains vividly present—a family bound by love in life and death, leaving behind a powerful legacy of compassion, leadership, and grace.