NYC helicopter that plunged into Hudson River had mechanical issue months before fatal wreck

A devastating helicopter crash in the Hudson River has claimed the lives of a Spanish family of five and their pilot during a sightseeing tour in New York City. The chopper broke apart midair before plummeting into the river near Jersey City, just one day before the family was set to celebrate their daughter's 9th birthday. The victims — Agustin Escobar, Merce Camprubí Montal, and their three young children — were in the U.S. on a vacation combined with a business trip. The pilot, Navy SEAL veteran Sean Johnson, was also killed. Authorities are investigating possible mechanical failure as the cause, with the tail and rotors still missing. The grieving family in Spain shared a heartfelt statement, remembering their loved ones as joyful, united, and forever together. Recovery efforts and a full investigation by the NTSB and FAA are underway.