The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the fatal tour bus crash that killed five people on the New York State Thruway.

The accident occurred Friday when a bus carrying dozens of passengers lost control and overturned near Pembroke, New York. Authorities confirmed that five people were killed, while many others — including children — suffered injuries. Several passengers were trapped inside the wreckage before being rescued by emergency crews and bystanders who rushed to help.

On Saturday, the NTSB announced it will examine what caused the driver to lose control. Investigators are expected to review factors such as driver performance, vehicle condition, road environment, and weather conditions at the time of the crash.

“This is a devastating tragedy, and our priority is to determine exactly what happened so we can prevent crashes like this in the future,” an NTSB spokesperson said.

The bus was returning to New York City from a day trip to Niagara Falls when the crash occurred. Survivors are being treated at local hospitals as families await further updates from officials.

The NTSB’s investigation is ongoing, with findings to be released in a final report at a later date.