Five passengers were killed on Friday after a tour bus traveling from Niagara Falls to New York City crashed on a state highway near Pembroke, approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Buffalo.
As per authorities, the driver became distracted and lost control of the vehicle, which led to the crash.
“It’s believed the operator became distracted, lost control, overcorrected and ended up… over there,” said Major Andre Ray of the New York State Police during an on-site press briefing Friday evening.
The crash involved a total of 54 passengers, many of whom were of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino origin, officials confirmed. Earlier reports suggesting children were among the deceased were later corrected; no children were killed.
Several injured passengers were treated at local medical facilities and later released. No other injuries were deemed life-threatening, police said.
Mechanical failure, intoxication, and driver impairment were all ruled out as contributing factors. No charges have been filed at this time.
Translators were dispatched to the scene to assist with communication, and the rescue operation involved eight helicopters, according to Margaret Ferrentino, president of Mercy Flight, a nonprofit emergency air service provider.
“The driver is alive and cooperating,” a police spokesperson stated. “We believe we have a clear understanding of what led to the loss of control, but we’re ensuring all details are fully investigated.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that her office is working closely with state police and local emergency services to provide aid to those affected.
In the aftermath of the crash, the regional blood and organ donor network, Connect Life, issued an urgent call for blood donors to help meet medical demand.
“I’m heartbroken for all those we’ve lost and those injured. I’m praying for their families,” said U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. “Thank you to the brave first responders on the scene.”
Niagara Falls, a renowned destination straddling the U.S.-Canada border, remains one of the most visited natural attractions in North America.
