Heilcopter Crash In Hudson River Draws Response From Hoboken And Jersey City

HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — After a tourist helicopter crashed in the Hudson River on Thursday afternoon, killing as many as six people, Hudson County emergency workers responded and local officials spoke out.

Hoboken's Fire Department posted on social media, "FD's Marine 1 is on the scene of a helicopter crash in the Hudson River. This happened in Jersey City, but @HobokenFire boat is assisting along with JCPD, JCFD, NYPD, NYFD & &NJSP and HobokenPD is on the waterfront to assist as needed. Avoid the area if possible."

Reports say that a pilot, two adults, and three children died in the crash, and that five people aboad were tourists from Spain. READ MORE: Helicopter Crashes Into Hudson River In NYC, 6 Reported Dead

The group took off from the Manhattan side, reports said.

Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez, who represents Jersey City and Hoboken, said that she has been trying to ban tourist helicopter flights in the state of New Jersey. She's a sponsor of A1371, which would prohibit tourist helicopters in the state.

“My heart breaks for the families affected by today’s devastating crash,” she said. “No one should lose their life to an avoidable tragedy, especially one that has long been foreseen by residents and community leaders alike.”

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said, "The city of Hoboken’s Public Safety Department was prepared and ready to respond to today’s helicopter crash on the Hudson River, as our first responders always are. I thank our Fire, Police, and EMS personnel for their quick action and professionalism. On behalf of Hoboken, I offer my deepest condolences to the families affected by today's tragic loss."