Helicopter crash: Touching tribute to 'happy and united' family-of-five killed in Hudson River

The relatives of the family wiped out in have said there are “no words” to describe what they are feeling in their first comments about the horror crash.

They also vowed to keep the memory of a “family happy and united” following the deaths of Siemens executive Agustin Escobar, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal and their three children aged four to eleven. and the ninth birthday of one of their two daughters.

In a lengthy statement last night signed by seven members of Agustin’s family and 12 of Merce's, they said: “Dear all, We would like to express our deepest gratitude for the massive expressions of sympathy and support received in the last few hours.

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"There are no words to describe what we are experiencing nor to thank the love received.

"These are very difficult times, but optimism and joy have always characterised our family.

"We want to keep the memory of a happy and united family, in the sweetest moment of their lives.

“They have gone away together, leaving an indelible mark among all their family, friends and acquaintances.”

Adding representatives of both families were already in New York, they added: “We have traveled to New York to fulfil all the formalities and repatriate the bodies home.

“In the coming days we will send you the details of the farewell ceremony they deserve, but in the meantime we ask for the utmost respect for their privacy, given the global impact of this tragedy and the involvement of the three minors.

"Your support keeps us strong, and the Escobar-Camprubí will always be with us and in our hearts. Escobar Cañadas Family: Agustín, Josefina, María José, Jose, Jose, Irene and Jorge. Camprubi Montal Family: Joan, Merche, Joan, Cristina, Berta, Albert, Jan, Bru, Berta, Teo, Alex and Anna.”

The statement was posted by Merce’s brother Joan alongside a new photo of Agustin and his wife with their three children - believed to have been taken in New York shortly before their fateful helicopter ride.

He wrote in Catalan alongside the statement: “Grateful for your support that keeps us strong.

“The Escobar-Camprubís will always be among us, with their joy and vitality. We love you family. He finished the message off with DEP, Spanish for RIP."