UPDATE: A devastating tour bus crash on the New York Thruway has claimed the lives of five people and left many others injured. The incident occurred at approximately 12:20 p.m. on July 14, 2023, near Pembroke, New York, roughly 40 miles east of Niagara Falls.
Authorities report that a bus operated by M&Y Tour Inc. was transporting 54 passengers from Niagara Falls to New York City when it veered off the road. Preliminary investigations by the New York State Police indicate that the bus “exited the roadway into the median then abruptly corrected, causing the bus to overturn and roll off the I-90 on the south embankment.”
Emergency services rushed to the scene, dispatching ambulances and medical helicopters. Tragically, five passengers—aged between one and 74 years old, primarily from India, China, and the Philippines—lost their lives. Dozens of others sustained serious injuries, with several passengers thrown from the bus and others trapped inside for hours as rescue crews worked tirelessly to free them.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated, “Local officials are working to rescue and provide assistance to everyone involved.” In a press conference, New York State Police troop commander Andre Ray revealed that the cause of the crash remains under investigation, although “mechanical failure as well as operator impairment have been ruled out at this time.” He added that the bus operator has been cooperative, and no charges have been filed so far.
Authorities are appealing to local drivers who might have captured dash cam footage of the incident to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation. The emotional impact of this tragedy is felt deeply throughout the community, as families anxiously await news about their loved ones.
As details continue to emerge, the focus remains on the rescue and recovery efforts, as well as the investigation into this horrific accident. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the crash.