Emergency crews respond after a tourist bus carrying international passengers crashes near Buffalo, New York (AP)
What began as a day that promised a most wonderful experience at Niagara Falls ended with grief when a sightseeing bus with 54 passengers overturned along a New York highway. This bus included travelers from India, China and the Philippines.
It went off course about 40 kilometers further east of Buffalo while returning to New York City. Reports from the authorities confirmed that five people had died while others had injuries that were, however, not life-threatening.
The new investigators found that the driver was distracted behind the wheel and lost control. In trying to regain the balance, it veered off and ended in a ditch at Pembroke.
ALSO READ: Trump’s Double Standard: Targeting India Over Russian Oil, Leaving China Untouched – But Why?
Major Andre Ray from New York State Police stressed that there was no evidence pointing toward intoxication, impairment, or mechanical failure. "The operator is alive and cooperating with authorities. We believe distraction was the primary factor," Ray said.
Emergency services wasted no time before swooping in on the devastating scene. Eight helicopters alongside operational ground rescue teams would be transporting victims to hospitals. There were also translators called for foreign nationals to speak with officials and medical staff. Mercy Flight, which is an air ambulance service not for profit, contributed a lot in the swift evacuation of injured persons.
ALSO READ: After DC Trump Expands Federal Crackdown, Targets New York And Chicago In Crime Push
Condolences were sent out on behalf of New York Governor Kathy Hochul, as well as assurances for necessary support from state authorities. "We are working closely with local agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected," she said in a statement. Blood donation organizations such as Connect Life also made desperate appeals for donors to respond with urgency in meeting the sudden medical requirement.
Grief was impounded by Senior U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, who also described the incident as heartbreaking and thanked the first responders for their seconds and sacrifices. "Our prayers are with families who lost loved ones, and we stand by all those injured," he said.
It is a grim reminder of how distracted driving can endanger lives on the road. While investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance behind the wheel, especially when such great numbers of lives are at stake.
ALSO READ: Defense Secretary Hegseth Removes Senior Military Leaders After Iran Report Dispute
