A tragic bus crash on the New York State Thruway left five people dead and dozens injured after a tour bus flipped near Pembroke, about 30 miles east of Buffalo. The bus was carrying over 50 passengers on a trip from Niagara Falls to New York City when it suddenly lost control on Friday afternoon.
Eyewitnesses described the bus veering into the median, crossing the southern shoulder, and rolling over violently, shattering windows and throwing some passengers from the vehicle. Trooper James O’Callahan said the driver survived and is cooperating with investigators, who believe they are close to understanding what caused the accident.
Early reports incorrectly suggested a child was among the dead, but further checks confirmed that although several children were on board and hospitalized, none lost their lives. Emergency responders acted swiftly, transporting many injured passengers to nearby hospitals.
Erie County Medical Center treated 20 patients with serious injuries ranging from head trauma to fractures. Some patients required surgery, while others had less severe but significant injuries. Hospital officials assured the public that everyone treated is expected to recover.
The National Transportation Safety Board is sending a team to investigate, focusing on the bus’s mechanical condition, driver conduct, and any safety concerns that contributed to the crash. Such investigations often take months but help improve future safety.
Passengers came from several countries, including India, China, and the Philippines. Translators were brought in to assist due to language barriers at the scene.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed she was briefed and closely monitoring the situation. Senator Chuck Schumer also expressed concern for the victims and their families.
The tragedy shook the local community and the entire state. While accidents like these are rare, their consequences can be devastating, especially given that passengers were ejected, highlighting the crash’s severity.
Authorities have not yet disclosed specific causes such as speed, driver fatigue, road conditions, or mechanical problems, but the driver’s cooperation alongside witness accounts and forensic evidence will be crucial.
As the community mourns, calls grow for stricter safety regulations for tour buses on highways. The impact of this tragedy will be felt for years among the families and survivors affected.
