Five Dead, Dozens Injured in New York Tourist Bus Crash After Niagara Falls Visit

A tragic accident unfolded on Friday, August 22, 2025, when a tourist bus carrying over 50 passengers from Niagara Falls to New York City crashed along Interstate 90 near Pembroke in western New York. The incident left five people dead and dozens more injured, with preliminary investigations pointing to driver distraction as the likely cause.

Bus crash new york update: What We Know About the Fatal Interstate 90 Incident

The incident occurred roughly 40 kilometers east of Buffalo, when the tour bus—operated by M&Y Tour Inc.—veered off the highway and rolled onto its side. Officials stated that the driver appeared to have been momentarily distracted, causing the vehicle to overcorrect and lose control. No mechanical issues or signs of impairment were detected, ruling out equipment failure or intoxication.

The bus was returning from a day trip to Niagara Falls, one of the most visited landmarks in North America, known for hosting millions of tourists each year. It is common for large groups to travel via organized charter buses on these excursions.

Who Were the Victims in the New York Bus Crash?

Authorities confirmed that five passengers, all adults, lost their lives in the crash. The deceased included individuals of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino origin. Although initial reports mistakenly indicated a child had died, later verification confirmed all fatalities were adults.

Among the 54 occupants on board, 49 were hospitalized for injuries ranging from minor to severe. Emergency crews airlifted several individuals using eight helicopters in a large-scale rescue operation. Six Chinese nationals were on board—five were treated and released, while one underwent surgery. The age range of passengers spanned from infants to elderly tourists.

What Caused the Tour Bus Crash in New York?

Investigators concluded that the driver was not under the influence and that the bus did not suffer any mechanical failure. Instead, they believe distraction led to a critical error. The vehicle crossed multiple lanes, eventually tipping over after an overcorrection maneuver.

Seatbelt usage—or the lack thereof—has been cited as a factor influencing the extent of injuries. Charter buses manufactured after 2016 are required to have seat belts, but enforcement and usage remain inconsistent.

Emergency Response and Government Reaction

State Police, local rescue teams, and air ambulance services rapidly mobilized. A Mercy Flight spokesperson confirmed that eight helicopters were involved in transporting victims. New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Chuck Schumer offered their condolences and ensured that support was being provided to all affected families.

Additionally, the regional blood and organ donor network ConnectLife issued an urgent appeal for blood donations to assist in ongoing treatments. Translators were dispatched to help survivors from diverse national backgrounds, ensuring communication was swift and culturally sensitive.

This devastating incident, now widely searched under the term bus crash new york update, underscores the urgent need for stronger safety practices, driver alertness, and improved emergency response systems on long-distance bus tours. The community and authorities continue to support the survivors and honor the lives lost.

For your information:

What caused the bus crash near Buffalo, New York?
Preliminary reports indicate that driver distraction led to overcorrection, causing the bus to veer off the highway and overturn.

How many people died in the New York tour bus accident?
Five passengers were confirmed dead, all adults of foreign nationalities including Indian, Chinese, and Filipino.

Were there any children on the bus during the crash?
While the initial reports mentioned a child fatality, it was later confirmed that all five deceased victims were adults.

Is seatbelt use mandatory on tour buses in New York?
New York requires seatbelts on charter buses built after November 2016. However, usage enforcement varies and likely influenced the injury severity.

How many people were injured in the Niagara Falls bus crash?
Out of 54 total passengers, 49 sustained injuries and received medical care, with some in critical condition.

Was the driver of the crashed bus found at fault?
Authorities have not filed charges but identified driver distraction as the likely cause. The driver is cooperating with the investigation.