First Responders Honored for Heroic Efforts in Western New York Thruway Bus Rollover

In August 2025, a tour bus traveling on the New York State Thruway near Pembroke overturned, resulting in five fatalities and numerous injuries among the 54 passengers on board.

 

The accident prompted an immediate and coordinated response from multiple emergency agencies across Western New York.

 

Among the first to arrive were the dedicated volunteers from the Newstead and Akron fire companies.

 

“We were one of the first companies to arrive,” said Joe Bergman, second assistant chief for Akron Fire Co.

 

“Driving the wrong way down the Thruway was interesting.

 

Pulling up with the helicopter landing right next to us, it was surreal.”

 

The scene was chaotic, with passengers trapped inside the bus and others ejected onto the roadway.

 

First responders faced the daunting task of extricating individuals from the wreckage.

 

“It was just jumping right into the auto extrication of saving that one girl that was pinned under the back wheel well,” recalled Louis Henley, president of Newstead Fire Co.

 

Over 45 agencies collaborated tirelessly under unprecedented conditions to ensure the safety and survival of all involved.

 

“It just wasn't a regular auto extrication that we had to do,” said Joe Hawes, first assistant chief for Newstead Fire Company.

 

“We actually had to lift the bus straight up.”

 

The impact of their efforts resonated deeply with the victims and their families.

 

“My wife, a fellow firefighter, tells her story; the lady was just very, very thankful when they finally got her out and just couldn't stop saying thank you to her,” Bergman shared.

 

Recognizing their extraordinary service, the Daughters of the American Revolution awarded 22 responders from the Newstead and Akron fire companies the Distinguished Citizen Medal.

 

“I thought we should do something to honor both of the fire companies because they were an integral part of the rescue,” said Kay Green, a chapter treasurer for the organization.

 

This marked the first time the district bestowed such an honor.

 

As the holiday season approaches, the recognition serves as a poignant reminder of the selfless dedication of first responders.

 

“It's a good time to recognize them during the holidays when there might be accidents, snowstorms,” Green noted.

 

“They come and just do the things they are volunteering for, but it makes a difference in people's lives.”

 

The event also highlighted the ongoing need for volunteers in emergency services.

 

“Whether it's grandma fell down in the middle of the night or a bus with 50-plus people on it, both are just as important,” Bergman emphasized.

 

“It's not just the seven people that we pulled out from under the bus.

 

It's their families and everyone that they know.

 

It’s really the best reward—more than any medal could give—is knowing that that person lives another day.”

 

The heroism displayed during the Thruway bus rollover stands as a testament to the courage and commitment of first responders in Western New York.

 

Their actions not only saved lives but also reinforced the vital role they play in the community.