Five killed in New York tourist bus crash after Niagara Falls visit
Authorities said victims were of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino origin. (Photo: AP) / AP
7 hours ago
Five people lost their lives on Friday when a tour bus carrying more than 50 passengers from Niagara Falls to New York City crashed on a highway in western New York, state police reported.
The accident happened near the town of Pembroke, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Buffalo, as the group returned from a day trip to the famous falls on the US-Canada border.
State Police Major Andre Ray said initial findings indicate the driver became distracted, lost control, and overcorrected, leading to the crash. “We have ruled out mechanical failure as well as impairment or intoxication,” Ray told reporters.
Officials confirmed that the deceased were of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino origin. Translators were brought in to assist survivors. While five fatalities were confirmed, no other passengers were in life-threatening condition. Several were treated for minor injuries and later released.
China’s state broadcaster CCTV reported six Chinese nationals were on board. Five sustained minor injuries and were discharged, while one remained in surgery.
Rescue and response
Emergency crews launched a large-scale operation that included eight helicopters, according to Margaret Ferrentino, president of air ambulance provider Mercy Flight.
Police said the bus driver survived and is cooperating with investigators. No charges have been filed.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul pledged state support for victims and their families, while Senator Chuck Schumer expressed condolences, writing: “I’m heartbroken for those we’ve lost and those injured, and I thank the first responders for their quick action.”
In the aftermath, regional blood network Connect Life issued an urgent call for blood donations.
Niagara Falls, one of North America’s most visited natural landmarks, attracts millions of tourists annually, many of them traveling on organized bus tours like the one involved in Friday’s fatal accident.
