A tour bus headed back to New York City from Niagara Falls crashed on Friday, leading to a tragic outcome. The bus, carrying 54 passengers, rolled over on Interstate 90 near Pembroke, New York. Five passengers were killed, and many others were injured during the accident.
Authorities believe the driver became distracted and lost control of the bus, which then veered off the road and flipped over. Major Andre Ray of the state police mentioned that the investigation is ongoing, and they have not yet determined the exact cause of the distraction.
The passengers on board were between the ages of 1 and 74. Some were ejected from the bus, while others became trapped inside. Fortunately, first responders acted quickly, rescuing anyone who was trapped and transporting more than 40 people to local hospitals. Most injuries were not life-threatening, though some people suffered serious conditions like head trauma and broken bones.
First responders reported that many of the passengers were of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino descent. To aid in communication, translators were brought in. The driver survived and is cooperating with investigators, but no charges have been filed yet.
The bus belonged to M&Y Tour Inc., based in Staten Island. Reports suggest that several passengers were not wearing seat belts, which has raised concerns in light of a 2023 law requiring seat belt use on newer charter buses. The specific model year of the bus involved in the crash remains unclear.
Following the accident, New York Governor Kathy Hochul commented on social media, expressing her condolences and confirming that her office is coordinating with local officials and police.
This incident echoes past bus accidents in New York, highlighting the ongoing need for safety measures. In recent years, studies have shown that proper seat belt usage can significantly reduce injuries during crashes. For example, a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of fatal injury by 45%.
As investigations continue, community responses on social media reflect shock and grief, with many expressing their sympathy for the victims and their families.
For more information on safety regulations for buses, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
