A tragic multi-vehicle collision on the Long Island Expressway in Queens, New York, has left two individuals dead and over twenty others injured. The incident unfolded late on Monday evening, 29 June 2026, around 11:45 p.m., according to local authorities.
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Reports indicate that the bus was travelling eastbound near Greenpoint Avenue when it collided with another vehicle. This initial impact led to a chain reaction in which the struck vehicle crashed into yet another car. Subsequently, the bus overturned into oncoming traffic, entering the westbound lanes where it collided with two additional vehicles.
Emergency services were quick to respond to the scene, with over 70 firefighters and emergency personnel deployed to assist in managing the situation. The severity of the collision necessitated closing the Long Island Expressway in both directions. Motorists faced significant delays as they were instructed to reverse and exit the highway at the nearest off-ramp amid the chaos.
The incident has resulted in the unfortunate deaths of the bus driver and one of its passengers. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the deceased. Meanwhile, the driver of one of the eastbound vehicles involved in the crash was reported to be in critical condition and was rushed to a local hospital. Three additional drivers sustained injuries but were said to be in stable condition.
Approximately twenty passengers who were on the bus at the time of the accident were taken to various hospitals, including Bellevue Hospital, New York-Presbyterian Queens, and Elmhurst Hospital Centre, for medical evaluation and treatment.
The cause of this horrific collision remains under thorough investigation by local authorities. Despite several requests for further information, neither the New York Police Department (NYPD) nor the New York Fire Department (NYFD) provided immediate insights when contacted for clarification on the circumstances surrounding the accident.
This incident has raised concerns about safety on the Long Island Expressway, especially regarding the movement of large vehicles such as buses in busy traffic conditions. It has also prompted discussions about the necessity of comprehensive checks on the vehicles operating on the roads, particularly in light of recent events.
As the community comes to terms with this tragic event, local officials are expected to address safety measures aimed at preventing such catastrophic incidents in the future. The families of those affected, especially the victims, are undoubtedly in the thoughts of many as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event.
As more details emerge, it is imperative for authorities to ensure that those injured receive the necessary care and support, while working diligently to determine the factors that led to the crash. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this challenging time.