At least five people have died after a tour bus crashed on the New York State Thruway in western New York, reports BBS, quoting the New York State Police.
The crash took place approximately 40 miles from Niagara Falls, a major tourist destination on the US-Canada border.
Police said the group was returning from Niagara Falls on the US-Canada border to New York City when witnesses saw the vehicle lose control and overturn. Most of the victims are tourists from India, China and the Philippines.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said local officials "are working to rescue and provide assistance to everyone involved".
Ambulances and medical helicopters were sent to the crash site, near the town of Pembroke, 48 kilometres east of the city of Buffalo.
The 52 people on board at the time of the crash were aged between one and 74, police confirmed.
Some victims were thrown from the vehicle when it crashed, and it is believed most were not wearing seatbelts.
Others were trapped inside the wreckage for several hours.
Major Andre J Ray, New York State Police troop commander, said in a news conference: "The cause of the collision is still under investigation. However, mechanical failure as well as operator impairment have been ruled out at this time.
"The operator has been cooperative, and the investigation is still underway. No charges have been filed at this point."
The bus was heading eastbound and lost control, veering into the median and then into a ditch, according to police.
Multiple children were on board at the time of the crash, police say.
Twenty-four adult patients were admitted to one local hospital, and doctors say they're expected to make a full recovery. Other area hospitals also received patients, and those under 16 who survived were taken to a children's hospital.
The Red Cross has opened a family reunification centre to connect children and parents who were transported to different hospitals.
Authorities are requesting drivers with dashcam footage of the crash to come forward to aid in their investigation.
Comments