A tour bus carrying over 50 passengers crashed outside Buffalo, New York, on Friday, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The bus, on its way from Niagara Falls to New York City, overturned on Interstate 90 near the town of Pembroke.
According to reports from local station WGRZ-TV, the bus lost control, swerving off the highway before rolling over. “At this time we have multiple fatalities, multiple entrapments and multiple injuries,” said Trooper James O’Callahan of the New York State Police, who spoke to reporters at the accident scene. He noted that the bus was traveling eastbound when it veered into the median and overcorrected, ending up in a ditch on the right side of the roadway.
Among the 51 passengers were individuals from India, China, and the Philippines. Recognizing the need for clear communication, authorities brought in translators to assist in the response efforts. The bus driver survived and is cooperating with investigators.
Emergency services responded quickly; police shut down I-90 in both directions to manage the scene and ensure no additional accidents occurred. Victims were transported by helicopter and ambulance to various hospitals, with the majority taken to Erie County Medical Center. Dr. Jennifer L. Pugh, the chief of emergency medicine at ECMC, confirmed that 24 patients arrived at the facility, with 20 still receiving care. She stated, “There were several fatalities on the scene.”
Other hospitals in the area treated the injured as well. Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital reported receiving 13 patients—11 adults and two children—with the majority in good condition. Oishei Children’s Hospital treated three children, with two in good condition and one listed in serious condition.
By late afternoon, authorities had reopened the westbound lanes of I-90, whereas the eastbound side remained closed as police worked to clear the scene. New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her sympathy on social media, stating, “I’ve been briefed on the tragic tour bus accident on the @NYSThruway. My team is coordinating closely with @nyspolice and local officials who are working to rescue and provide assistance to everyone involved.”
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with travel, emphasizing the importance of safety measures on our roadways.
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