A tragic road accident has claimed the lives of five people after a tour bus carrying international tourists overturned on the New York State Thruway in western New York.
According to New York State Police, the bus was returning from Niagara Falls to New York City when it suddenly veered off course near Pembroke, around 30 miles east of Buffalo. The vehicle lost control, crossed the median and plunged into a ditch, leaving behind a scene of devastation.
The 52 passengers on board were aged between one and 74, with most identified as tourists from India, China and the Philippines. Authorities confirmed that several passengers were ejected from the vehicle during the crash, while others remained trapped inside the wreckage for hours. Preliminary reports indicate that many were not wearing seatbelts.
Emergency responders rushed ambulances and helicopters to the scene. Hospitals across the region admitted multiple victims, with at least 24 adults being treated at one local facility. Children under 16 were transferred to a dedicated children&rsquo;s hospital. Doctors have expressed optimism about full recoveries for the majority of survivors.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said officials were working around the clock to provide aid and support. &ldquo;Local teams are working to rescue and provide assistance to everyone involved,&rdquo; she stated.
State Police Commander Andre Ray Major briefed the media, clarifying: &ldquo;The cause of the collision is still under investigation. However, mechanical failure as well as operator impairment have been ruled out at this time. The operator has been cooperative, and no charges have been filed.&rdquo;
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene with shattered windows, belongings scattered across the road and passengers shaken. Powell Stephens, who passed by shortly after the crash, said,&ldquo;There was glass all over the road and people&rsquo;s stuff everywhere. Everyone seemed conscious, but the bus was lying on its side. It was shocking.&rdquo;
In the aftermath, ConnectLife, a regional blood provider, issued an urgent appeal for donations. &ldquo;Our community is facing a crisis,&rdquo; said spokesperson Sarah Diina. &ldquo;This is one of those moments when your action can directly save lives.&rdquo;
Meanwhile, the Red Cross has opened a family reunification center to help children and parents who were transported to different hospitals reconnect. Police are urging anyone with dashcam footage of the crash to come forward.
The tragedy occurred just 40 miles from Niagara Falls, one of North America&rsquo;s busiest tourist spots, and has cast a shadow over what began as a leisure trip for dozens of families.

Niagara Falls return trip turns tragic, 5 dead and dozens injured in NY bus crash

Tour Bus Crash in New York Kills 5

Niagara Falls return trip turns tragic, 5 dead and dozens injured in NY bus crash

August 23, 2025 | 14:54 IST