The pilot who was killed when a helicopter he was flying crash-landed on top of a New York City skyscraper has been identified as a volunteer fire department chief.
Tim McCormack went down with the aircraft that was obliterated on impact when it struck a 54-storey building in midtown Manhattan on Monday.
The real estate company that used the helicopter confirmed Mr McCormack, of Clinton Corners, New York, was the pilot.
Mr McCormack was also a volunteer fire squad chief. His fellow volunteers described him as an "extremely respected" member of the service as they paid tribute.
The Offical East Clinton Volunteer Fire Department paid tribute to Mr McCormack in a Facebook post as they shared an image of the firefighter.
A statement from the department read: “Chief McCormack was extremely respected by not only the members of the department, but throughout the Dutchess County fire service.
“Tim will be exceptionally missed by this department's members, not only for his leadership but for his wonderful sense of humour. Rest in Peace Brother.”
The helicopter was flying in rain and heavy clouds when it crash-landed on the AXA Equitable building in midtown Manhattan.
Shocking photographs showed that the aircraft was obliterated on impact.
Pictures released by the Fire Department on Monday show piles of burned rubble on the roof of the tower.
American Continental Properties said Mr McCormack had flown for the company for the past five years.
It said in a statement that "our hearts are with his family and friends."
McCormack was formerly a volunteer fire chief for the East Clinton Fire District
FAA records said he had been certified in 2004 to fly helicopters and single-engine airplanes.
He was certified as a flight instructor last year.
Authorities said the helicopter was being used for executive travel.
Only a few pieces of the aircraft’s wreckage were recognisable as having been parts of an aircraft, including a piece of the tail.
Damage to the building itself appeared light.
No other people were on board when the crash occurred.
Agencies contributed to this report
