Five people died after a tour bus leading to New York State in western New York State crashed, according to New York State police.
Police said the group was returning to New York City from Niagara Falls from Niagara Falls when witnesses saw the vehicle lose control and flip. According to police, most of the victims are from India, China and the Philippines.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said local officials are “working to rescue and help everyone involved”.
Ambulances and medical helicopters were taken to the crash site near Pembroke, 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of Buffalo.
Earlier it was reported that a child was the deceased, but police now say that this is not the case.
Police confirmed that at the time of the crash, 52 people on board were between one and 74 years old.
Police said some victims were thrown away when the vehicle crashed and most were believed to have not been worn.
Several people were trapped in the wreckage for several hours.
The translator was taken to the scene to assist in the investigation.
“The cause of the collision is still under investigation. However, mechanical failures and operator damage at this time have been ruled out,” New York State Police Force commander Andre Ray Major said in a press conference.
“The operator has been collaborative and is under investigation. No charges have been filed yet.”
The crash occurred about 40 miles from Niagara Falls, the main tourist destination on the U.S.-Canadian border.
Police said the bus was heading east, losing control, turning to the middle and entering the ditch.
Officials said “multiple people died” and “multiple fishing and multiple injuries”. Authorities have not released the total death toll.
Police said there were multiple children on the boat during the crash.
At least 21 patients were taken to local hospitals.
A witness told Buffalo News After the crash, he saw a bus lying on the side, scattered in the driveway.
“The road is full of glass and people’s things are everywhere,” Powell Stephens said.
“The windows were broken. Everyone seemed very conscious and OK, but I only saw about 15 seconds of scene.”
ConnectLife, a group that provides blood to hospitals in the region, has called for urgent appeals to donate blood.
“Our community is facing a crisis,” said spokeswoman Sarah Diina.
“This is the moment when your actions can directly save lives,” Diina said. “Please donate. If not, please help us by spreading the word.”
Authorities are asking drivers to video the meter range of the crash to stand up to assist their investigation.
Health & Wellness Contributor
A wellness enthusiast and certified nutrition advisor, Meera covers everything from healthy living tips to medical breakthroughs. Her articles aim to inform and inspire readers to live better every day.
