Hudson River Helicopter Crash Victim Identified as Decorated Navy SEAL Veteran and Beloved Father Sean Johnson, Whose Wife Confirms His Death and Honors His Heroic Life of Service and Sacrifice
New York City — April 10, 2025 — Authorities have officially identified the pilot killed in the devastating Hudson River helicopter crash as 36-year-old Sean Johnson, a decorated U.S. Navy SEAL veteran and experienced commercial pilot. Johnson’s wife, Kathryn Johnson, confirmed his death late Friday night and issued an emotional tribute to a man described by many as a hero, both in and out of uniform.
Tragedy Over the Hudson
The crash occurred on Thursday, April 10, at approximately 3:18 p.m., when a Bell 206L-4 helicopter, operated by New York Helicopter, experienced a catastrophic in-flight mechanical failure shortly after takeoff. Witnesses reported seeing the rotor malfunction before the aircraft spiraled into the Hudson River near Jersey City, just west of Manhattan.
All six people on board — including a family of five visiting from Spain and the pilot — tragically lost their lives. Emergency responders from the NYPD, FDNY, and Coast Guard rushed to the scene, but all recovery efforts confirmed there were no survivors.
A Life of Courage and Commitment
Sean Johnson, a native of Dallas, Texas, enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 19 and later graduated from SEAL training in Coronado, California. Over the course of his military career, Johnson served multiple combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning multiple commendations for bravery and leadership, including the Bronze Star with Valor.
After retiring from active duty, Johnson transitioned to civilian life by pursuing a career in aviation. He trained at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and went on to work with New York Helicopter, where he was widely respected for his professionalism and calm demeanor in the skies.
“He was a warrior with wings,” said fellow pilot and friend Michael Torres. “Sean carried his discipline and courage from the battlefield into every cockpit. He was meticulous, humble, and a natural leader.”
Remembered by His Family
Sean Johnson is survived by his wife, Kathryn Johnson, and their two young children. In her public statement, Kathryn described Sean as “a devoted husband, a selfless father, and a patriot who lived to serve others.”
“After surviving war zones, Sean found joy in flying and helping others experience the beauty of New York City from the sky. He loved being in the air. He died doing what he loved — and in his final moments, he did everything he could to protect those onboard.”
Friends and colleagues say Johnson’s military background likely played a role in his efforts to control the failing aircraft and minimize harm to people on the ground. Aviation experts note that his maneuvering may have prevented a far deadlier outcome in such a densely populated area.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading an active investigation into the crash, focusing on the helicopter’s rotor system and possible mechanical failure. The aircraft has been recovered from the river and is undergoing forensic analysis.
According to early FAA records, the Bell 206L-4 had passed inspection in the months leading up to the crash, but mechanical integrity and pilot decision-making in those final seconds are key parts of the inquiry.
“Preliminary data suggests that Sean Johnson did everything within his ability to safely handle a catastrophic failure,” said NTSB investigator Marla Henley. “We recognize the loss of a skilled and decorated pilot and will continue to investigate with diligence and transparency.”
Community in Mourning
The loss of Sean Johnson has sent shockwaves through both the veteran and aviation communities. On Friday evening, dozens of flowers, candles, and hand-written notes were placed outside the West 30th Street Heliport in Manhattan, where Johnson frequently departed for sightseeing and charter flights.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement expressing condolences to the victims’ families and honoring Johnson’s military and civilian contributions:
“Sean Johnson’s legacy as a protector and professional will not be forgotten. He served his nation with honor, and he continued to serve civilians with equal care and dedication.”
Veteran support organizations such as the Navy SEAL Foundation and Team Rubicon have extended their condolences and pledged to support the Johnson family through this tragic time.
Final Farewell
Plans for a memorial service are underway, with a public tribute expected to be held later this month in both New York City and Dallas, where Johnson’s extended family resides. In lieu of flowers, the Johnson family has requested donations be made to the Navy SEAL Foundation or Wounded Warrior Project.
As the NTSB continues to investigate, many are left mourning a man who lived a life defined by service, skill, and sacrifice.