Five Dead After Tour Bus Crashes on New York Highway

A tragic tour bus crash on the New York State Thruway near Pembroke, about 40 miles from Niagara Falls, has left five people dead and over 20 others injured. The bus was carrying 52 passengers — ranging in age from 1 to 74 — returning to New York City after visiting Niagara Falls, a major tourist destination.

According to New York State Police, the crash occurred when the vehicle lost control, veered off the road, and overturned in a ditch. Witnesses reported seeing the bus roll over, with debris and personal belongings scattered across the roadway. Some passengers were ejected from the vehicle, and many were trapped inside for hours. Authorities confirmed that most passengers were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

The victims include individuals from India, China, and the Philippines. Contrary to earlier reports, no children were among the deceased. Multiple children were, however, on board during the crash.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene with ambulances and medical helicopters. Translators were brought in to assist non-English-speaking passengers. At least 21 people have been hospitalized.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her condolences and confirmed that local authorities are actively assisting victims.

State Police Troop Commander Andre Ray Major stated that neither mechanical failure nor operator impairment appear to be causes of the crash. The driver has been cooperative, and no charges have been filed.

ConnectLife, a local blood donation service, has issued an urgent appeal for blood donors to support hospitals treating the injured.

Authorities are urging anyone with dashcam footage of the crash to come forward as the investigation continues.