R.I.P.

5 Killed in East River Helicopter Crash

Pilot survives after private charter for photographers sinks into cold waters.

Five people died and one was rescued after a sightseeing helicopter crashed into New York City’s East River and sank on Sunday night, according to the mayor’s office. The Coast Guard reported that six people were aboard the Eurocopter AS350, which was owned by Liberty Helicopters. The five dead were passengers: Two were pronounced dead at the scene, three at local hospitals, The New York Times reported. The pilot managed to climb out to the top of the capsized helicopter after the crash just north of Roosevelt Island and was reported to be in good condition Sunday night. The passengers were firmly strapped into their seats in waters colder than 40 degrees, and were on a private charter to take photographs, Police Commissioner James O’Neill said at a press conference. The Federal Aviation Administration announced it was investigating the crash, and the National Transportation Safety Board is also expected to be on the scene early Monday morning.