Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing as a community unites to support the affected families.
The crash occurred when a tour bus overturning on the New York State Thruway, claiming the lives of five people, primarily tourists hailing from India, China, and the Philippines. New York State Police reported that the bus lost control while returning to New York City from Niagara Falls, a popular destination near the US-Canada border. Local officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, stated that efforts to assist those involved in the accident are underway.
Ambulances and rescue operations were promptly initiated near Pembroke, approximately 30 miles east of Buffalo. Initially reported as including a child, authorities revised earlier statements to confirm no minors were among the deceased. The bus was carrying 52 passengers, ranging in age from one to 74, with many not buckled in at the time of the crash, leading to significant injuries and fatalities as some victims were ejected from the vehicle.
The condition of many injured passengers remains hopeful, with 24 adults admitted to a local hospital expected to make full recoveries. Several area hospitals received the injured as well, with a children's hospital taking care of survivors under 16.
Witnesses described the horrifying scene, where shattered glass and personal belongings littered the roadway. Powell Stephens, a bystander, remarked on the chaotic aftermath he encountered.
In light of this tragic event, ConnectLife, a regional blood donation organization, has launched an emergency appeal for blood donations, emphasizing the critical need for community help during this crisis. In addition, the Red Cross has opened a family reunification center to assist in connecting children with their parents who have been transported to different medical facilities.
As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, New York State Police have ruled out mechanical failure and operator impairment as factors in the incident. However, they remain keen on acquiring dashcam footage from drivers who were near the accident site to aid in their inquiries.
The crash occurred when a tour bus overturning on the New York State Thruway, claiming the lives of five people, primarily tourists hailing from India, China, and the Philippines. New York State Police reported that the bus lost control while returning to New York City from Niagara Falls, a popular destination near the US-Canada border. Local officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, stated that efforts to assist those involved in the accident are underway.
Ambulances and rescue operations were promptly initiated near Pembroke, approximately 30 miles east of Buffalo. Initially reported as including a child, authorities revised earlier statements to confirm no minors were among the deceased. The bus was carrying 52 passengers, ranging in age from one to 74, with many not buckled in at the time of the crash, leading to significant injuries and fatalities as some victims were ejected from the vehicle.
The condition of many injured passengers remains hopeful, with 24 adults admitted to a local hospital expected to make full recoveries. Several area hospitals received the injured as well, with a children's hospital taking care of survivors under 16.
Witnesses described the horrifying scene, where shattered glass and personal belongings littered the roadway. Powell Stephens, a bystander, remarked on the chaotic aftermath he encountered.
In light of this tragic event, ConnectLife, a regional blood donation organization, has launched an emergency appeal for blood donations, emphasizing the critical need for community help during this crisis. In addition, the Red Cross has opened a family reunification center to assist in connecting children with their parents who have been transported to different medical facilities.
As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, New York State Police have ruled out mechanical failure and operator impairment as factors in the incident. However, they remain keen on acquiring dashcam footage from drivers who were near the accident site to aid in their inquiries.
