💔 SAD NEWS: Hudson River Helicopter Crash Victims Identified — Half Were Children, Including the Children of a Former San Francisco 49ers Star
New York City — April 11, 2025
In an unfathomable tragedy, the victims of the helicopter crash over the Hudson River have been officially identified, and the news is nothing short of devastating. Half of those lost were children, and among them were the beloved children of a former San Francisco 49ers player.
The private helicopter, en route to a family retreat on the outskirts of the city, took off from a helipad near downtown Manhattan before tragically losing control and plummeting into the icy waters below. Despite immediate attempts to rescue those on board, there were no survivors.
A Heartbroken Family Left in Ruins
One of the most gut-wrenching revelations is that the victims included Chad “The Tank” Carson, 39, a former defensive lineman for the San Francisco 49ers. Carson, who retired from the NFL just three years ago, was on the helicopter with his wife, Lena, and their three children: Ella (10), Max (7), and Lucas (3). The family had been on their way to a weekend getaway, one they had been planning for months.
“It was supposed to be a fun family trip, something they could all look back on as an unforgettable experience,” said a friend of the family. “Chad was an amazing father, and Lena was a rock. The kids were so excited—Lucas especially couldn’t stop talking about seeing the Statue of Liberty from the air.”
The Unthinkable Loss of Little Lucas
But the most heartbreaking detail came as investigators pieced together the final moments of the crash. Lucas Carson, just 3 years old, was confirmed to be among the victims, his life cut tragically short. According to sources close to the family, Lucas had only recently learned to say “I love you,” and his voice echoed through the family’s texts in his final moments.
A chilling text from Lena Carson to Chad, moments before the crash, read:
“Lucas says he’s ready for his first big adventure. Please don’t worry about us. Love you always.”
A Nation in Shock
The loss has sent shockwaves through the sports world and beyond. In the wake of the tragedy, former 49ers teammates, including Hall of Fame linebacker Patrick Willis, have come forward to offer their condolences, remembering Chad Carson as “one of the fiercest, kindest players ever to wear the red and gold.”
“He was a warrior on the field, but a devoted father at home,” said Willis in an emotional tribute. “This is a loss that no one should have to endure.”
What Went Wrong?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has confirmed they are investigating the crash, though no official cause has been announced. Authorities have suggested that poor weather conditions and possible mechanical failure could have played a role, but this remains speculative.
The helicopter had passed its last maintenance check just three weeks ago, but initial reports indicate that an emergency alert system may have failed in the minutes before the crash.
The Family’s Legacy: Gone Too Soon
As the Hudson River slowly swirls with the reflection of a city in mourning, tributes pour in from every corner of the world. A public memorial service will be held in San Francisco, where fans, family, and friends will gather to honor the Carsons and their legacy.
“This wasn’t just a loss of a football player. This was a loss of a father, a friend, a hero,” said Carson’s childhood friend, Derrick Jackson. “They were everything to each other.”
