Pembroke, NY — A devastating tour bus crash in upstate New York on Friday has resulted in multiple fatalities, including at least one child, while more than 50 passengers were injured after returning from a trip to Niagara Falls, authorities confirmed.
Bus Lost Control on Interstate 90
The accident occurred near the Pembroke exit, roughly 25 miles east of Buffalo, when a bus carrying 52 passengers reportedly lost control, entered the median, and then landed in a ditch along the right side of the road. New York State Trooper James O’Callaghan described the incident as severe, noting:
“The bus did roll, and most people had not been wearing seat belts. People inside were ejected as the windows shattered. There were multiple ejections. There were multiple people trapped and there’s multiple fatalities, and this includes children.”
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where victims were trapped inside the wreckage. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with shattered glass and personal belongings strewn across the roadway. Powell Stephens of Medina, who passed by the crash, said:
“There was glass all over the road and people’s stuff all over the road. Windows were all shattered.”
Medical Response and Hospital Efforts
Hospitals in the region reported evaluating or treating over 40 people, with injuries ranging from head trauma to broken arms and legs. Mercy Flight medical transport service, along with other helicopter services, mobilized six helicopters to evacuate victims to local hospitals.
At a news conference at Erie County Medical Center, Dr Samuel Cloud, the chief medical officer, stated the crash brought in “probably the most trauma patients from one incident in my career here in Buffalo.” Dr Jeffrey Brewer, chief of surgery, added that two patients who required surgery were expected to recover.
Driver Survived, Investigation Underway
The bus driver survived the crash and is cooperating with authorities. Trooper O’Callaghan said, “The driver is alive and well. We’re working with him. We believe we have a good idea of what happened, why the bus lost control.” No further details about the cause of the crash have been released yet.
Authorities noted that the passengers were primarily of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino origin, prompting officials to arrange for interpreters to assist at the scene. The crash temporarily blocked the interstate in both directions, and drivers were urged to avoid the area.
Government and Community Response
New York Governor Kathy Hochul wrote on X that she had been updated on “the tragic tour bus accident” and confirmed that her office was coordinating with law enforcement and local agencies. Attorney General Letitia James also posted on X:
“This bus crash is heartbreaking, and I’m praying for everyone [affected]. Grateful to our first responders on the scene working to rescue and help people.”
The accident marks a tragic event for the region, highlighting the vulnerability of passengers in high-speed travel when seat belts are not used and emergency response times are critical.
- Number of passengers: 52
- Primary injuries reported: head trauma, broken arms, broken legs
- Location of crash: Interstate 90 near Pembroke, NY
Officials are continuing to investigate the crash and are working to notify family members of the victims. Travelers and the local community remain in shock as authorities continue to manage the aftermath and ensure safety along the affected stretch of highway (source).
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