Chestnut Ridge, NY (February 15, 2026) – A serious head-on collision involving a passenger vehicle and a bus occurred early on Sunday on Saddle River Rd near Hillside Ave, leaving multiple people injured and prompting a large emergency response.
The crash was reported at approximately 6:25 a.m. along Saddle River Rd in Chestnut Ridge. According to initial reports, the collision involved a car and a bus carrying several bocherim. Several boys aboard the bus sustained injuries, while the driver of the car suffered serious injuries and required extrication from the vehicle. Ramapo police, Faist EMS, Hatzoloh, and the Monsey Fire Department responded to the scene. The roadway remains closed as authorities conduct their investigation.
Key Details
- Location: Saddle River Rd near Hillside Ave, Chestnut Ridge
- Reported: February 15, 2026, at 6:25 a.m.
- Type: Head-on collision
- Vehicles Involved: Passenger car and bus
- Injuries: Multiple minor injuries; one serious injury with extrication
- Status: Road closed; investigation ongoing
What We Know So Far
- The crash involved a head-on impact between a car and a bus carrying several boys.
- Several bus passengers sustained minor injuries.
- The car’s driver suffered serious injuries and required extrication.
- Multiple emergency agencies responded, and the road was closed for investigation.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The total number of individuals treated at the scene.
- Whether additional hospital transports were required.
- The circumstances that led to the head-on collision.
Local Context
Saddle River Rd is a key local route in Chestnut Ridge, connecting residential neighborhoods with nearby community institutions and main corridors. Early morning traffic can include school-related transportation and local commuters. Curving sections and limited shoulders along portions of the roadway may increase risks when vehicles cross center lines. When serious crashes occur in this area, authorities typically close the roadway to allow for safe extrication, medical care, and detailed scene documentation.
What to Do Next
- Move to a safe area if possible and check for injuries.
- Remain at the scene and follow instructions from responding officers.
- Note nearby landmarks or cross streets to document the exact location.
- Seek immediate medical care if you experience symptoms after a crash, even if they seem minor at first.
FAQ
Q: Why are head-on collisions often more severe?
A: Head-on crashes combine the force of two moving vehicles, significantly increasing impact energy and the likelihood of serious injury.
Q: What does extrication mean in a crash?
A: Extrication refers to the process of safely removing an injured person from a damaged vehicle using specialized tools and rescue techniques.
Q: Why might a road remain closed after a serious crash?
A: Authorities may close a roadway to allow for medical treatment, vehicle removal, debris cleanup, and a thorough investigation into the cause of the collision.
