Eight people were rescued from a small seaplane that crash-landed and nearly capsized in New York City's East River on Sunday morning, July 5, 2026. The New York Fire Department responded swiftly, pulling all eight passengers from the aircraft. Two individuals sustained minor injuries and were evaluated by emergency medical staff at the scene.
Witness accounts and rescue operation
Brian, a New Yorker who witnessed the aftermath from his apartment window, told Metro: 'I did not see the impact, only all the emergency boats rushing over after. I'm so glad everyone is safe. It is amazing news.' Video footage captured the plane bobbing in choppy waters as lifeboats rushed to evacuate passengers. After all passengers were removed, the plane was righted and towed back to the docks.
Investigation underway
The New York Police Department confirmed that an investigation into the crash remains ongoing. The incident occurred just a day after the Brooklyn Bridge caught fire during a Fourth of July fireworks display celebrating America's 250th birthday, though no injuries were reported in that event.
