BDE: Monsey Resident R’ Yakov Friedman Killed in Weschester Airplane Accident

By Rockland Daily Staff

We regret to inform you of the tragic passing of a longtime Monsey resident R’ Yakov Friedman, who died tragically Thursday evening in a plane accident.

R’ Yakov was flying a small airplane along with an instructor when the pair reported engine issues at around 7:15pm. They tried to land the plane at Westchester County Airport when it crashed .

The other yid, a resident of Linden NJ, is in a stable condition. 

The airplane crash-landed on the Interstate 684 near exit 2, missing the highway, and immediately exploded in flames. All lanes on the highway are closed, from both directions.

Emergency services rushed to the scene and sadly confirmed the passing of R’ Yakov a”h, while the instructor was rushed to a nearby medical center for treatment.

R’ Yakov was known for his smile and worked at Fireside Restaurant greeting and serving customers with his charisma and personality. He will sorely be missed by all who knew him.

Governor Kathy Hochul tweeted on the incident: "I have been briefed on this incident. The highway has been closed in both directions as the @nyspolice conduct their investigation. The crash also caused an aviation gas spill, which @NYSDEC is working rapidly to clean. Our hearts are with the loved ones of those on board."

National Transportation Safety Board investigators are set to arrive Friday and urge witnesses to email [email protected]. Drivers in the area should expect heavy detours and plan in advance.

The Levaye of R' Yakov Friedman, who tragically passed away in last night's horrific Westchester plane crash, will take place at 10am at the Beis Hachaim in New Square.