A tragic helicopter crash near New York City claimed the lives of well-known executives from Spain, Agustín Escobar and Mercè Camprubí Montal, along with their three young children and the pilot. The family was on vacation when the accident occurred, just one day before their daughter Mercè’s ninth birthday. The deaths of the family were mourned in Barcelona, where they had a home, as they were a well-known family. Mr. Escobar, 49, was an executive at Siemens in Berlin, while Ms. Camprubí was an executive with Siemens Energy. Both were highly respected professionals in their field, and their deaths were met with sadness and shock in both the business and local communities.
The helicopter crashed into the Hudson River while touring New York City, with the two passengers initially being alive when pulled from the water by divers but later succumbing to their injuries. The cause of the crash is under investigation, with no clear reason yet determined. Spanish officials, including Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, expressed their condolences and sympathy for the tragic loss of the Escobar and Camprubí families. Efforts are being made to repatriate their remains to Spain once necessary permissions are granted by the New York authorities.
Agustín Escobar, originally from Puertollano, Spain, was celebrated in his hometown in 2023 as a “favorite son” for his professional achievements. He had a successful career with Siemens, previously serving as the CEO of Siemens Spain and later leading the company’s rail infrastructure division from Berlin. Mercè Camprubí was also a high-level executive with Siemens Energy, though the company has not made public statements regarding her passing. The couple’s tragic deaths leave behind a legacy of professional excellence and personal tragedy, with their young children also losing their lives in the helicopter crash.
The Barcelona community, where the family resided, mourned the loss of the Escobar and Camprubí family members, noting their significant contributions to society and reputation as esteemed individuals. Salvador Illa, the governor of Barcelona, expressed his sorrow over the tragedy and highlighted the family’s well-known status. The Barcelona Football Club, of which two members of Mercè’s family had been presidents, also shared in the mourning of the family’s untimely deaths. The impact of this heartbreaking accident reverberated across both personal and professional circles, with many expressing shock and grief over the loss of the Escobar and Camprubí family.
Siemens, the company where Agustín Escobar and Mercè Camprubí were employed, issued statements expressing deep sadness over the deaths of their colleagues. Both individuals had made significant contributions to the company and were respected leaders in their respective divisions. The tragic accident highlights the fragility of life and the profound loss experienced by loved ones, colleagues, and the wider community. Efforts are being made to support the families of the victims and honor their memories through tributes and remembrances. The Escobar and Camprubí family’s legacy of excellence and dedication will be remembered by those who knew and worked with them, leaving a lasting impact on those they touched during their lives.
The investigation into the cause of the helicopter crash remains ongoing, with authorities working to ascertain the factors that led to the tragic incident. The loss of Agustín Escobar, Mercè Camprubí, their children, and the pilot has left a void in the hearts of their loved ones and the communities they were part of. The outpouring of support and condolences from local and international figures reflects the profound impact of this devastating event. As efforts are made to repatriate the family’s remains to Spain, the grieving process continues for those who knew and loved the Escobar and Camprubí family members. The memory of their lives and accomplishments will endure as a testament to their legacy and the impact they had on those around them.
