**Fatal accident highlights concerns over bus safety and passenger preparedness**
**Tragic Tour Bus Crash in New York Claims Five Lives**
**Tragic Tour Bus Crash in New York Claims Five Lives**
**Incident occurred while returning from Niagara Falls, sparking an urgent investigation**
Five individuals have died following a devastating tour bus accident on the New York State Thruway, as confirmed by local authorities. The tragedy unfolded as the bus, which was returning to New York City from the scenic Niagara Falls area, reportedly lost control and overturned. Most of the deceased are believed to be foreign tourists, hailing from India, China, and the Philippines.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has indicated that local resources are being mobilized to provide aid and support to those affected by the incident. Emergency responders, including ambulances and medical helicopters, were dispatched to the scene, located near Pembroke—approximately 30 miles east of Buffalo.
Initially, police reported that a child was among the fatal casualties; however, this claim has since been retracted. There were 52 passengers on board, spanning ages from one to 74 years. Witness accounts indicate that many victims were ejected from the bus during the crash, likely due to the absence of seatbelt usage, while others faced entrapment in the wreckage for hours.
Translators have been requested to assist both at the crash site and throughout local hospitals as investigations develop. New York State Police’s troop commander, Andre Ray major, stated during a press conference that the investigation is ongoing, with mechanical failure and driver impairment currently ruled out as factors contributing to the accident.
The bus lost control while traveling eastbound, veering off into the median before landing in a ditch, according to investigators. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with personal belongings scattered across the roadway and shattered glass confirming the severity of the impact.
A total of 24 adults were transported to a nearby hospital, where they are expected to make full recoveries. Additional patients were taken to various hospitals in the area, while a children's hospital accommodated minors who survived the incident. In response to the tragedy, ConnectLife, a local blood donation organization, has launched an urgent appeal for blood donations to address the increased need within the community.
In an effort to assist families separated during the chaos, the Red Cross has opened a reunification center. Authorities are also urging any drivers with dashboard cameras who might have recorded the incident to come forward to aid the investigation.
