Five killed as tourist bus crashes in New York

NEW YORK: Five people, mostly tourists from India, were killed when a tour bus overturned in New York state on Friday, police said.

“Tragically, multiple people were ejected from the bus, with five deceased at the scene,” said New York State Police troop commander Andre Ray.

He called the crash “an absolute tragedy,” saying passengers ranged from one to 74 years old.

Police said most of the 52 passengers were Indian, Chinese, and Filipino nationals. A total of 54 people were on board. The bus was returning from Niagara Falls when it crashed on Interstate-90 near Pembroke, about 40 kilometres west of Buffalo.

Ray said the cause was still under investigation but ruled out mechanical failure and driver impairment. “The driver became distracted, lost control, and over-corrected,” he said. The driver was cooperating, and no charges had been filed.

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Earlier reports about a child among the dead were incorrect, police confirmed.

At least six medevac helicopters were dispatched to the crash site. The highway was closed in both directions, causing long traffic delays.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said she was briefed about the “tragic tour bus accident” and that her office was working with police and local officials. “Our hearts are with their loved ones during this difficult time,” she tweeted.

US Senator Chuck Schumer also expressed grief, thanking emergency responders and offering prayers for the victims’ families.