The pilot of a helicopter lost his life after it crash-landed on a 54-story building on Monday afternoon in Midtown Manhattan.
The Agusta A109E helicopter took off from the 34th heliport at around 1:32 pm (local time) and crash-landed on the roof of the 54-storey building at 787 Seventh Avenue after being airborne for 11 minutes, police said.
The pilot has been identified by local media as Tim McCormack. Quoting a source, CNN reported that the family of the pilot have been informed.
Both New YorkGovernor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio confirmed that no one in the building or on the ground sustained injuries.
The angle of terror was also ruled out. Mayor Bill de Blasio said there was “no indication that the crash was an act of terror.”
The fire could be seen at the rooftop following the crash, which was quickly extinguished.
“FDNY members made their way to the roof and we were able to put water on the fire quickly. The fire has been extinguished, and the fuel leak has been mitigated,” FDNY Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro told reporters.
US President Trump praised the ‘First Responders’ for their phenomenal job.
“I have been briefed on the helicopter crash in New York City. Phenomenal job by our GREAT First Responders who are currently on the scene. THANK YOU for all you do 24/7/365! The Trump Administration stands ready should you need anything at all, ” he tweeted.
Following the incident, large portions of midtown Manhattan streets were closed to pedestrian and vehicle traffic, as the police initiated an investigation in the area.
The area covers 15 city blocks and two avenues and also includes New York’s iconic Times Square and many Broadway theatres.
(With ANI inputs)