Tour bus overturns on NY Interstate, killing 5, including 3 from NJ

A tour bus carrying more than 50 people fell over on Interstate 90 in upstate New York on Friday afternoon, killing five people, including three New Jersey residents. Authorities said the bus, traveling toward New York City, went off the road and slid down an embankment, leaving a carnage scene.

Crash Near Pembroke, NY

A crash occurred before 1 p.m. in Pembroke, 30 miles east of Buffalo. Authorities said the bus traveled east on the New York State Thruway after leaving Niagara Falls. Investigators said the truck skidded into the road center before turning over. Some people were thrown off the bus, while others got caught in the debris.

Regional hospitals received injured passengers after hours of rescue work by county rescuers. Five persons died on the spot despite their efforts.

Identified Victims

After the crash, authorities identified the victims. Three New Jerseyans were involved:

• Pinki Changrani, 60, East Brunswick

• Zhang Xiaolan, 55, Jersey City

• Jian Mingli, 56, Jersey City

The other victims were Shankar Kumar Jha, 65, of Madhu Bani, India, and Xie Hongzhuo, 22, a Beijing student at Columbia University in New York City.

The abrupt and painful death of loved ones has shaken New Jersey communities.

Rollover Injures Dozens

M&Y Tour Inc. of Staten Island operated a 2005 Van Hool Coach with 54 passengers, including the driver and tour leader. Authorities reported over a dozen passengers were injured, some critically. The victims were taken to Erie County Medical Center, Strong Memorial Hospital, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, and United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia.

Investigation of Cause

Queens bus driver Bin Shao, 55, was not drunk when he crashed, officials said. A first bus examination identified no technical issues, but investigators warned of a full review.

The NTSB, state police, and municipalities are investigating the crash. Investigations include driver behavior, road conditions, and vehicle safety.

Massive Emergency Response

Over a dozen local and state agencies responded, including the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, NYS Thruway Authority, and volunteer fire companies. Despite tough conditions, rescue teams stabilized and aided bus survivors. Several people were hurt at the hectic accident site, according to officials.

Community and Nationwide Impact

Road safety and tour bus regulation have been discussed again since the accident. Officials say no infractions have been detected, but concerns remain about how a normal Niagara Falls–New York City journey became fatal. Communities in New Jersey and New York grieve as victims’ families seek answers.

Investigation Continues

Anyone who observed the crash or has information should call the New York State Police in Batavia while the investigation continues. The survivors and families of the victims are receiving support after the catastrophe.

Sources:

Associated Press
New York State Police
National Transportation Safety Board