**A fatal tour bus crash on the New York State Thruway has left five individuals dead, with the investigation ongoing as authorities seek to understand the circumstances surrounding the accident.**
**Fatal Tour Bus Crash in New York: Five Lives Lost**

**Fatal Tour Bus Crash in New York: Five Lives Lost**
**Tragic accident claims lives of tourists on a return trip from Niagara Falls**
A devastating accident occurred on the New York State Thruway in western New York, resulting in the deaths of five individuals following a tour bus losing control. According to the New York State Police, the bus was carrying tourists back from Niagara Falls near the US-Canada border and was headed for New York City when the incident took place. Preliminary reports indicate that the majority of the deceased were tourists from India, China, and the Philippines.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has assured that local officials are focusing on rescuing and supporting those affected by this tragedy. Emergency responders, including ambulances and medical helicopters, were promptly dispatched to the scene located near Pembroke, approximately 30 miles east of Buffalo.
Initially, authorities stated that a child was among the deceased; however, this has since been clarified as incorrect. The bus was carrying a total of 52 passengers, ranging in age from one to 74 years. Reports indicate that many victims were thrown from the bus during the crash, largely due to the fact that seatbelts were not in use. Others found themselves trapped for hours until rescue teams could reach them.
To facilitate communication during the emergency response, translators were made available at the crash site and in local hospitals. Andre Ray Major, troop commander of the New York State Police, addressed the media, indicating that while the investigation continues, potential causes such as mechanical failure and operator impairment have already been excluded. The bus operator has been cooperative, and at this time, no charges have been filed.
Eyewitness accounts describe the chaotic aftermath, with one bystander noting, “There was glass all over the road and people's stuff all over the road,” after witnessing the bus flipped on its side. Local healthcare facilities have reported a total of 24 adult patients admitted, all of whom are expected to recover, while child survivors were transferred to a specialized children’s hospital.
In light of the crisis, ConnectLife, an organization supplying blood to local hospitals, has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations, stressing the crucial impact of community support. Additionally, the Red Cross has set up a family reunification center to help reconnect parents with their children who were taken to different hospitals following the accident.
As the investigation proceeds, authorities are appealing to the public for any dashcam footage of the bus to aid in determining the events that led to this tragic incident.