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2 dead after bus of high school students crashes in upstate NY
By
Elizabeth Shwe
Published Sep 21, 2023
Modified Sep 21, 2023
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By
Elizabeth Shwe
Published Sep 21, 2023
Modified Sep 21, 2023
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Two adults died and at least five students were critically injured Thursday after a bus carrying 40 high school students and four adults crashed in Orange County.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said the New York State Police were on the ground in the aftermath of the crash. She said a faulty front tire may have caused the accident, but the state police will continue investigating.
"Within 45 minutes, because of the efforts of an incredible amount of teamwork, these young people and the adults were brought to safety," Hochul said.
Gina Pellettiere of Massapequa and Beatrice Ferarri of Farmingdale were identified as the victims of the crash, authorities said.
The bus was carrying members of Farmingdale High School band to a camp in Pennsylvania. The crash happened on Interstate 84 in the town of Wawayanda, about 70 miles north of New York City.
"Our number one priority was to get everybody out of that bus and getting them the medical care they need, which they are getting," Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus told Gothamist on Thursday. "So I am asking that the public keep their prayers directed at those individuals right now that are undergoing some serious injuries."
News aerials show the bus lying on its side in trees and shrubs away from the road.
"At my direction, personnel from the New York State Police and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services are onsite to assist local emergency response teams," Hochul said in a statement. "We are grateful for the first responders whose speedy action saved lives and we will continue to support them however necessary. Our hearts are with all who are impacted by this horrific situation."
This story has been updated with new information.
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Elizabeth Shwe
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