News Summary
A tragic tour bus crash on the New York State Thruway has resulted in five fatalities, including a Columbia University student. The incident occurred when the bus rolled over while returning from Niagara Falls. Investigators are probing the cause, focusing on the driver’s distraction and the lack of seat belt use among passengers. The community expresses deep sorrow as families mourn the loss of their loved ones. The bus company, M&Y Tour Incorporated, had no prior safety issues, raising further questions about safety regulations.
Tragic Tour Bus Crash in New York Claims Five Lives, Including Columbia University Student
In a heart-wrenching incident that has left many in shock, a tour bus crash on the New York State Thruway has taken the lives of at least five people, among them a bright young student from Columbia University. The unfortunate event unfolded on Friday around 12:20 PM when the bus, returning from a trip to the stunning Niagara Falls, rolled over near Pembroke, New York, which lies about 40 minutes from Buffalo and 30 miles northeast of the city.
What Happened?
According to investigators, the driver of the bus, 55-year-old Bin Shao from Flushing, New York, was reportedly distracted at the time the crash occurred. It’s been confirmed that there were no signs of impairment or mechanical failure linked to Shao or the bus itself, raising many questions about what went wrong during the trip.
Victims of the Crash
The crash tragically took the lives of five individuals, leaving families devastated. Among the deceased is:
- Xie Hongzhuo, 22, a young scholar from Beijing, China attending Columbia University.
- Shankar Kumar Jha, 65, from Madhubani, India.
- Pinki Changrani, 60, residing in East Brunswick, New Jersey.
- Zhang Xiaolan, 55, of Jersey City, New Jersey.
- Jian Mingli, 56, also from Jersey City, New Jersey.
The administration at Columbia University expressed deep sorrow over Hongzhuo’s passing and is providing support to her grieving family and friends during this profoundly difficult time.
The Aftermath
Of the 54 passengers onboard, many were ejected during the rollover, with several individuals not wearing seat belts, raising concerns about safety practices during the journey. Emergency services promptly arrived at the scene, including both ground and air ambulances, to assist those who were injured.
Medical Response
A total of 21 patients were treated at Erie County Medical Center, with a wide range of injuries reported. Some patients have already been discharged, while others remain in stable condition; notably, five individuals have been admitted to the trauma intensive care unit, receiving critical care. Additional victims were also taken to other hospitals, including the University of Rochester Medical Center and United Memorial Medical Center.
The Investigation
New York State Police revealed that the incident occurred when the bus lost control after entering the median, eventually flipping over. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is dispatching a team to dig deeper into the crash’s circumstances. The focus will also turn to the use of seat belts and the compliance of the bus with previously enacted safety regulations.
A Chaotic Scene
Witnesses recounted a scene filled with chaos, as personal belongings were scattered across the roadway and many individuals appeared visibly distressed. The crash led to the temporary closure of both eastbound and westbound lanes, further complicating the situation.
About the Tour Company
The bus was operated by M&Y Tour Incorporated, a Staten Island-based company that, notably, has a clean record with no prior accidents or fatalities in the last two years. However, this tragic incident has raised many questions about safety and while investigations are underway, the focus remains on honoring the lives of those lost in this heartbreaking accident.
This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of travel and the importance of bus safety regulations. The community, families, and friends are coming together to mourn the loss and support one another during this incredibly tough time.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox News
- Wikipedia: Tour Bus Crash
- CNN
- Google Search: New York bus crash August 2025
- New York Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bus Safety
- CBS News
- Google News: New York tour bus crash
- BBC News
- Google Scholar: New York tour bus accident
- NBC News
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
