Beaming with excitement, an eight-year-old girl posed in a helicopter cockpit on the eve of her ninth birthday, ready to enjoy a scenic tour over New York City with her family. Just 16 minutes later, tragedy struck.

The helicopter crashed into the Hudson River at 3:15 p.m., killing the young girl, her 10-year-old brother, four-year-old sister, and both parents — Agustin Escobar, a Siemens executive, and Merce Camprubi Montal.

The family, visiting from Barcelona, had just arrived in New York to celebrate the girl’s birthday, which would have been the next day. They were also reportedly marking Merce’s 40th birthday during the vacation.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the children’s ages and expressed condolences, calling it a “devastating” tragedy. Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop noted the trip was extended to include the helicopter ride as a birthday gift.

As the investigation continues, newly emerged footage may reveal what caused the fatal crash.