Pembroke, NY (August 22, 2025) – A heartbreaking crash involving a tour bus headed to New York City has claimed multiple lives, including at least one child, and left dozens injured on the New York State Thruway. The incident occurred Friday morning in the eastbound lanes of I-90 near Pembroke in Genesee County, approximately 30 miles east of Buffalo.
Emergency responders, including paramedics, fire crews, and air medical teams, rushed to the scene. Witnesses reported that the bus lost control, veered into the median, crossed to the southern shoulder, and overturned, causing a mass-casualty situation. Authorities confirmed that multiple people died in the crash, with children among the victims.
According to police, the tour bus had been returning to New York City after a trip to Niagara Falls. A collision with a semi-truck preceded the rollover, though the exact sequence of events remains under investigation. The Town of Pembroke and WGRX Buffalo reported up to 52 patients, with several people trapped and many others seriously hurt. Several passengers were ejected from the bus during the crash, increasing the severity of injuries.
The New York State Police said in a statement that emergency personnel are actively managing the scene and have requested additional ambulances and support units. Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed she has been briefed on the tragic situation and that state resources are being directed to assist the victims and families.
Our hearts go out to the victims, especially the children, and to all the families affected by this devastating incident.
Tour Bus Crashes in New York: Safety Challenges and Legal Considerations
Crashes involving tour buses often result in severe injuries and fatalities due to the number of passengers and the lack of seat belt usage. In the Pembroke rollover, dozens of individuals, including families with children, were affected, many of whom were ejected from the bus upon impact.
Such accidents typically result from a combination of driver fatigue, mechanical issues, or unsafe road conditions. The involvement of a semi-truck further complicates the investigation and raises questions about vehicle maintenance, speed, and driver awareness.
Bus operators have a legal responsibility to ensure passenger safety, including enforcing seat belt use and properly maintaining their vehicles. When these protocols are not followed, the consequences can be catastrophic.
Families dealing with the aftermath of a fatal crash face overwhelming grief, medical costs, and long-term emotional trauma. Access to counseling, legal guidance, and financial assistance can be critical for navigating such a difficult time.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.
