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'Miracle on the Hudson': Small plane crash-lands in NY river, no major injuries reported
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Mar 3, 2026
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Middle Hope Fire Department
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Mar 3, 2026
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Two people were rescued from a small plane that crash-landed into the icy Hudson River near the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge on Monday night, authorities said.
The local Middle Hope Fire Department said first responders were dispatched to the crash site, which is about 50 miles north of New York City, just after 8 p.m.
They located the plane in the water after searching for several minutes, and the occupants were able to get themselves out and swim to the shore, according to the department.
The two people were evaluated on the scene by Newburgh emergency medical workers and were transported to the hospital, fire officials said.
The Coast Guard said in a post on X that no major injuries were immediately reported. The agency added that it is partnering with local agencies to investigate the crash as well as contain and clean up any pollution.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul called the incident “another miracle on the Hudson,” referring to the 2009 US Airways flight piloted by Cpt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger that crash-landed in the river near Manhattan after the plane hit a flock of birds. All of the more than 150 passengers and crew members survived that incident.
“Thank God both the pilot and passenger of a single-engine plane that performed an ice landing near Newburgh have been located with only minor injuries,” Hochul wrote on X on Monday night. “Grateful to our first responders for their quick actions.”
Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said the plane’s occupants were expected to make a full recovery.
A spokesperson for the Federal Aviation Administration, which investigates plane crashes, said it is looking into the cause of the emergency landing. The agency said the plane was a Cessna 172 and confirmed two people were on board.
This story is based on preliminary information from officials and may be updated.
Tagged
Kathy Hochul
hudson river
new york state
newburgh
orange county
plane crash
public safety
transportation
Brittany Kriegstein
Brittany Kriegstein covers all breaking news around New York City, with a focus on crime and gun violence. Got a tip? Email Brittany at [email protected].
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