Pembroke, N.Y. — A tragic bus accident on the New York State Thruway left at least five people dead, including a child, and several others injured after a tour bus rolled over near Pembroke, east of Buffalo. The incident, which occurred around 12:30 p.m. Friday, has been classified as a mass casualty event, prompting a large response from emergency services.
According to State Police, the bus was en route from Niagara Falls to New York City when it lost control, veered into the median, and overturned, ending up in a ditch. As first responders arrived, they found multiple passengers trapped inside the vehicle. Over two hours after the crash, rescue efforts were still ongoing.
Trooper James O’Callaghan stated that all 52 individuals on board sustained various injuries, with many thrown from the bus during the rollover. He emphasized the severity of the situation, noting, “This bus was going full speed and did not collide with any other vehicles.” The bus ultimately came to rest on its side, complicating rescue efforts.
Emergency personnel transported injured passengers to medical facilities in Rochester and Buffalo. Dr. Jennifer Pugh at Erie County Medical Center reported that 16 passengers were admitted, with some undergoing surgery or receiving intensive care. Hospital officials, reflecting on the unusually high patient influx, described it as the busiest day of their careers.
Authorities closed both the eastbound and westbound lanes of the Thruway near the crash site, resulting in significant traffic delays. As of late afternoon, westbound lanes had reopened, but eastbound traffic was still blocked. State Police advised motorists to seek alternative routes and anticipated continued disruptions throughout the day.
Witnesses and anyone with dash cam footage of the incident are being urged to contact State Police to aid in the investigation. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has been monitoring the situation and has directed resources to assist local officials as they manage the aftermath of this devastating event.
The identities of the deceased and further details about the injured have not yet been released. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to this tragic incident.