Pembroke, NY — At least five people have been killed and multiple others injured after a tourist bus carrying 54 passengers, including children, rolled over on Interstate 90 near Pembroke, roughly 25 miles east of Buffalo. The bus was returning from Niagara Falls to New York City when the crash occurred, authorities said.
Bus Lost Control and Rolled Into Ditch
State police spokesperson James O’Callaghan described the sequence of events at a news conference:
“The bus lost control, went into the median, overcorrected, and ended up in the ditch, which would be on the right side of the roadway.”
The crash also involved a tractor-trailer, though officials did not provide further details about its role in the incident. O’Callaghan added, “It’s a full-size tour bus. Heavy amount of damage. Most people, I’m assuming, on the bus did not have a seat belt on. That is the reason why we have so many ejected people on this bus.”
Witnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
Bystanders described a horrifying scene of destruction. Powell Stephens, who drove past the accident site, told The Buffalo News:
“There was glass all over the road and people’s stuff all over the road. Windows were all shattered The Independent.”
First responders, including Mercy Flight and local emergency services, used multiple helicopters and ambulances to transport the victims. The Erie County Medical Center received several patients, with 24 treated at the hospital. Of those, 20 remained in the emergency department, two were in surgery, and others were in the trauma ICU, according to Dr. Jennifer Pugh, chief of emergency medicine.
“Probably the most trauma patients from one incident in my career here in Buffalo,” said Dr. Samuel Cloud, the hospital’s chief medical officer.
Passengers from Multiple Countries
Translators were brought to the scene as most of the passengers were from India, China, and the Philippines. While children were transported to the hospital, authorities stated they were unaware of any serious physical injuries to children at this time.
The bus driver survived and is cooperating with authorities. O’Callaghan said, “We’re working with him. We believe we have a good idea of what happened, why the bus lost control.”
Government Officials React
New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed she was briefed on the “tragic” crash and is coordinating with local authorities:
“My team is coordinating closely with @nyspolice and local officials who are working to rescue and provide assistance to everyone involved.”
U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Eric Swalwell also offered condolences, praising first responders and expressing concern for victims’ families.
Safety Concerns and Next Steps
The New York State Police reported that the westbound lanes on I-90 have reopened. Officials continue to investigate the crash to determine the exact cause and whether seatbelt non-use contributed to the high number of ejected passengers. Authorities are urging anyone with information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
- Passengers: 54 total, including children
- Fatalities: At least 5
- Medical Response: Multiple helicopters and ambulances deployed
- Hospitalization: 24 treated at Erie County Medical Center, 20 still under care
The incident has sparked renewed concern about tour bus safety on interstate highways.
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