Five dead after tour bus overturns in New York

In the United States, a tragic bus accident occurred on Friday, August 21, 2025, when a chartered tour bus overturned while returning from a visit to Niagara Falls. The incident took place on Interstate 90 in Pembroke, New York, approximately 25 miles east of Buffalo, involving a vehicle that was transporting 54 people, including two drivers. Preliminary investigations suggest that the bus lost control after the driver may have become distracted, causing the vehicle to veer into the median and subsequently roll over. Fortunately, all passengers were reported to have at least minor injuries, many of which were exacerbated by not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. The bus, operated by M & Y Tour, Inc., was making its way back to New York City when the fatal accident occurred just before 12:30 PM. Initial reports mentioned the possibility of involvement from other vehicles, but authorities later clarified that the tour bus was the only vehicle in the incident. Many passengers were ejected from the bus during the rollover, leading to a chaotic scene of injuries and emotional distress for survivors and their families. Emergency medical services quickly arrived on the scene, assessing injuries and transporting those affected to nearby hospitals. Twenty-four passengers were admitted to Erie County Medical Center, with several others taken to different facilities, including Buffalo General and the University of Rochester Medical Center. Reports from hospital officials indicated that while many of the injuries were not life-threatening, some victims did suffer from serious conditions, including head injuries and broken bones. A National Transportation Safety Board team was dispatched to further investigate the circumstances of the crash, as it was one of the most traumatic events for the area’s medical resources. Among the deceased were individuals from various backgrounds, including Xie Hongzhuo, a 22-year-old student from Columbia University, and others ranging in age and nationality. The loss has deeply affected the community, prompting Columbia University to offer support services for grieving students. The driver of the bus survived and is cooperating with law enforcement, and no signs of mechanical failure or impairment were detected; however, the cause of the crash is still being thoroughly examined by authorities. This tragic event has sparked discussions about bus safety regulations, passenger responsibilities, and emergency response strategies in tour operations.