1 dead, 11 injured after bus coming from Montreal crashes in New York's Adirondacks

One person has died and 11 others were injured after a bus headed from Montreal to New York City rolled over on a highway Friday afternoon in the Adirondacks.

New York State Police said in a news release that they are investigating the crash, which occurred on Interstate 87 in Lake George, roughly 260 kilometres south of Montreal.

There were 23 people on the bus including the driver, police say. One passenger was seriously injured and 10 other passengers suffered non-life threatening injuries. 

One patient was airlifted from the site of the crash to hospital in Albany, N.Y., and is currently under evaluation, according to Matt Markham, a spokesperson for the Albany Medical Center.

Other patients were transported to Glens Falls Hospital, Markham said in an email. The last patient there left Saturday morning.

"We have been in constant communication with Glens Falls in order to ensure all needed resources are available for patients," he said.

The person who died and the person in hospital in Albany are both Canadian, Global Affairs Canada said.

The bus that crashed belongs to FlixBus, according to a spokesperson for the company.

In a statement, spokesperson Mike Ogulnick said the bus was en route from Montreal to Manhattan and it crashed just before 1 p.m.

12 ambulances called

Don Lehman, a spokesperson for Warren County, told CBC News that 11 uninjured passengers were taken to the Lake George Fire Station and there were French translators on site to offer communication assistance.

He said the passengers are mainly French-speaking Canadians, though there are some Swiss passengers who were preparing to fly home from New York.

He said 12 ambulances were called to the scene from eight rescue squads.

He said it was about –6 C and roads appeared dry and clear during the day, but police are still investigating to determine the cause of the crash.

Speaking for the American Red Cross, Mike Tripodi said firefighters then transported uninjured passengers to the Fort William Henry Hotel in Lake George. They are being given rooms, supper and Saturday's breakfast all on the house.

"Currently, one of our Red Cross nurses is checking on the people in the hotel and assessing their remaining needs," Tripodi said Saturday. 

Authorities are discussing possible transportation to New York City with a local bus company, and other arrangements may be made if passengers wish, he said.

Eight passengers were able to continue their travels, taking another bus Friday evening, according to a spokesperson for Warren County.

The Red Cross is offering psychological support and passengers have been in contact with friends and family, Tripodi said.

In a statement, Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante said it was "with deep sadness" that she learned the news.

"My thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones," she said.

"I would like to thank the first responders who did an exceptional job in accompanying and rescuing the passengers and I send my sincerest condolences to the family of the deceased. My thoughts are with you."

Gov. Hochul joins 'New Yorkers in praying'

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement that drivers are encouraged to find alternate routes.

"I join New Yorkers in praying for all involved in this horrific incident and am grateful for the heroic efforts of our first responders."

I-87 extends from the Canadian border to New York City, serving as the most direct driving route.

Ogulnick said those who believe they may have relatives on board can call FlixBus at 1-844-944-2086 or email customercareUS@flixbus.com with questions. 

New York State Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or the bus before the crash, to please contact Troop G Headquarters at 518-783-3211.

Police are also asking the public to check if they have any dash camera videos that may have recorded the incident. The southbound lanes of I-87 remain closed between Exits 23 and 22.