A devastating crash shook New York State Friday afternoon when a tour bus carrying more than 50 passengers overturned on I-90 near Pembroke, just 25 miles east of Buffalo. Officials quickly declared it a “mass casualty” event.
At least three people — including a child — have been confirmed dead. Dozens more suffered injuries ranging from broken bones to critical trauma. Several passengers were reportedly ejected from the bus, while others were trapped beneath the wreckage as the vehicle plunged into a roadside ditch.
Harrowing photos from the scene captured shattered windows, luggage scattered across the highway, and emergency crews working frantically to free survivors. Helicopters and ambulances rushed victims to nearby hospitals, including Oishei Children’s Hospital in Buffalo.
The bus, returning from Niagara Falls to New York City, was filled with families — many identified as Filipino, Indian, and Chinese tourists.
Eyewitness Powell Stephens described the chaos to The Buffalo News: “There was glass all over the road and people’s stuff everywhere. Windows were all shattered.”
Governor Kathy Hochul called the tragedy “heartbreaking” and confirmed she had been briefed, while Attorney General Letitia James echoed: “I’m praying for everyone impacted.”
Officials say this is one of the largest single trauma events in Buffalo’s history. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
This is a developing story. Updates to follow.