Pembroke, New York,August 23(HS): Five people were killed and dozens injured when a tour bus carrying international tourists overturned on the New York State Thruway near Pembroke, about 30 miles east of Buffalo.

The bus, returning from Niagara Falls to New York City with 52 passengers aged between one and 74, veered off the highway on Friday afternoon and landed in a ditch, according to New York State Police. The victims are reported to be tourists from India, China and the Philippines.

Authorities said several passengers were ejected from the vehicle, while others were trapped inside the wreckage for hours. Police believe most on board were not wearing seatbelts. Mechanical failure and driver impairment have been ruled out as causes, though the investigation remains ongoing.

Emergency crews deployed ambulances and medical helicopters to the scene, with 24 adults admitted to local hospitals in stable condition. Children who survived were taken to pediatric facilities. A multilingual support effort was launched to assist non-speaking victims and families.

Governor Kathy Hochul pledged full state support for rescue and relief efforts, while the Red Cross opened a family reunification center. Blood donation agencies also issued emergency appeals to aid the injured.

The crash occurred roughly 40 miles from Niagara Falls, a top tourist spot on the US-Canada border. Authorities are urging drivers with dashcam footage to come forward to assist in the investigation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar