A serious accident involving a tour bus and a tractor-trailer occurred on the New York State Thruway in Genesee County on Friday afternoon.
Emergency crews responded to what authorities describe as a mass casualty incident near mile marker 403.9 in Pembroke. According to the Genesee County Fire Wire, initial reports suggest up to 52 individuals may be involved, with multiple victims trapped inside and beneath the overturned bus.
A significant emergency response has been mobilized, including multiple fire departments, rescue squads, and four Mercy Flight helicopters. These aircraft are preparing to land in the median of the Thruway. Additional heavy rescue units from surrounding areas, including Clarence, Newstead, Bowmansville, the Town of Batavia, and Leroy, have been called to assist with extrication efforts.
The eastbound Thruway has been shut down to facilitate emergency operations. At this time, no official statement has been released regarding fatalities or the condition of those injured.
This situation raises important questions about highway safety and emergency preparedness. As further information becomes available, we will continue to report on this developing story.