A devastating tour bus accident occurred on Friday, resulting in a mass casualty situation involving a semi-truck on a major highway in upstate New York. According to officials, the collision took place on the New York State Thruway near Pembroke, which is approximately 30 miles northeast of Buffalo and 40 miles southeast of Niagara Falls. The incident has led to a complete closure of all lanes on the highway.
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz issued a warning on social media platform X, urging the public to avoid the NYS Thruway eastbound route due to the serious nature of the accident. He described the crash as a significant mass casualty bus accident. As first responders arrived at the scene, the Erie County Medical Center, recognized as a level 1 adult trauma center, reported receiving seven patients by around 2 p.m.
Mercy Flight, a non-profit emergency air medical transport provider, confirmed that four patients were transported by air to various hospitals. Additionally, they indicated that at least two more patients would be flown to medical facilities for urgent care. As of now, further information regarding the total number of casualties and the condition of the victims has not been made available.
Eyewitnesses captured dramatic photos showing the large tour bus on its side in the grass beside the road, alongside a substantial emergency response team working to address the aftermath of the collision. New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her concern over the tragic tour bus accident, stating that she had been briefed on the situation. In her message on X, she mentioned, "My team is coordinating closely with @nyspolice and local officials who are working to rescue and provide assistance to everyone involved."
This is an evolving story, and officials continue to gather information about the incident. Members of the public are encouraged to check back for updates as more details become available regarding the circumstances surrounding this serious accident.
