Tour bus crash in upstate results in multiple fatalities.

A tragic accident involving a tour bus occurred on Interstate 90 near Pembroke, approximately 30 miles northeast of Buffalo, prompting a response from state and local authorities. New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Friday afternoon that her office was actively monitoring the situation and awaiting further details about the incident, which has been described as a mass casualty event.

According to information reported by local media, including Buffalo station WIVB, the bus was carrying more than 50 passengers when it overturned. The crash resulted in multiple fatalities, including at least one child, raising concerns about the safety of such transport operations. Governor Hochul expressed her condolences and stated that her team was working in close coordination with the New York State Police and local officials to assist those affected by the accident.

Initial images captured at the scene depict a bus flipped onto its side, highlighting the severity of the incident. Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz labeled the event a serious mass casualty accident and confirmed that it occurred near the boundary of Erie and Genesee Counties.

The Erie County Medical Center reported receiving seven patients by 2 p.m. on Friday, with at least four individuals transported to local hospitals by a nonprofit air medical transport service for critical care. This emergency response reflects the urgent need for medical assistance following the crash.

Following the incident, the New York State Thruway was closed in the vicinity of the accident, resulting in significant traffic disruptions, as state police issued advisories about heavy delays on I-90. Imagery from traffic cameras displayed vehicles diverting from the eastbound lanes of the Thruway, illustrating the widespread impact of the accident.

As of now, the cause of the bus’s rollover remains undetermined, and New York State Police have yet to provide additional insights. This situation is still developing, and further updates are anticipated as investigations proceed.

The incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding tour bus safety, particularly given the number of passengers involved. Authorities will likely scrutinize existing regulations to ensure passenger safety in the wake of such tragic occurrences.

This remains a developing story, with more information expected to emerge in the coming hours.

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