New Jersey School Bus Accident: A devastating school bus accident on the Garden State Parkway in Montvale, New Jersey, has left 15 people injured, including a 14-year-old boy who remains in critical condition. The crash occurred on the evening of Monday, March 10, around 7:30 p.m., near Exit 171, close to the James Gandolfini Service Area. The school bus, which was traveling from Lakewood, New Jersey, to Rockland County, New York, overturned, causing significant panic and chaos at the scene.
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The Scene of the Tragedy
First responders arrived to find the bus overturned, facing the wrong direction, with visible skid marks leading to a nearby embankment. The situation was dire, with passengers trapped inside, including the 14-year-old boy, who had become pinned under the vehicle. Emergency teams acted swiftly to extricate him, and he was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassali later confirmed that the boy is fighting for his life.
In addition to the young boy, 14 other individuals sustained injuries, including the 44-year-old bus driver and 13 other passengers. Thankfully, most of the injuries were minor, but the emotional toll on everyone involved was profound. Local hospitals, including those in Rockland County, mobilized to assist with the victims’ medical needs.
Witness Accounts: A Heartbreaking Scene
Witnesses at the scene described the overwhelming nature of the accident. Liam Deacy, a witness, shared his distress after seeing a passenger with severe head injuries and extensive blood loss. “It just did not look good. I’m praying for all the families and everybody involved,” he said. Another witness, Laura Santacruz, recalled seeing an individual being loaded into an ambulance, saying, “It broke my heart.”
The community of Montvale, along with nearby Rockland County, has come together to support the families of the victims. Messages of sympathy and prayers for recovery have poured in from both local officials and residents. Gov. Phil Murphy expressed his concern for the injured and reassured the public that all available resources would be mobilized to support the victims and their families.
Swift Response and Ongoing Investigation
First responders worked tirelessly through the night to clear the wreckage and assist those injured. Their quick and coordinated response undoubtedly saved lives and ensured the victims received the necessary care. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, with New Jersey State Police examining factors such as road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and the driver’s actions at the time of the accident. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
The Community’s Support and Strength
This tragic accident has left a deep scar on the Montvale community, but it has also highlighted the strength and resilience of those affected. Local residents have rallied around the victims and their families, offering support in any way possible. The hope is that those involved in the crash, especially the young boy fighting for his life, will receive the strength they need to recover.
A Call for Road Safety and Vigilance
While the investigation continues, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety. It underscores the need for drivers to remain vigilant and cautious, particularly when transporting children and passengers. The school bus, a symbol of care and responsibility, tragically became the site of this devastating accident, highlighting the unpredictability of road hazards.
As the community navigates this heartbreaking tragedy, the people of Montvale and Rockland County stand united in their support for the victims. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the injured, particularly the 14-year-old boy who remains in critical condition. We hope that in the days to come, they will find comfort and healing as they face this difficult journey.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families. May they find strength in the days ahead.
