A tragic accident occurred on the evening of March 10, 2025, on the Garden State Parkway in Montvale, New Jersey. A school bus, traveling from Lakewood, New Jersey, to Rockland County, New York, overturned, leaving 15 people injured, including a 14-year-old boy who is currently fighting for his life. The crash took place at approximately 7:30 p.m. on the northbound side of the parkway, just north of Exit 171, near the James Gandolfini Service Area.
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Scene of Devastation
The bus, overturned and facing the wrong way, had skid marks leading to an embankment, suggesting that the driver may have lost control. The sight of the bus was chilling, with its top pressed against the road, trapping passengers inside. Among the injured was a 14-year-old boy, who was pinned beneath the overturned bus. First responders acted quickly, rescuing the boy and rushing him to a nearby hospital. Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassali later confirmed that the boy remains in critical condition.
In total, 15 individuals were injured, including the 44-year-old bus driver and 13 passengers. While many sustained only minor injuries, the emotional toll on all involved is immeasurable. Emergency responders from Rockland County assisted with treatment, and the victims were quickly taken to local hospitals for care.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses to the incident described the gravity of the situation. Liam Deacy, a nearby observer, recalled seeing a passenger with severe head injuries and visible blood loss, saying, “It just did not look good. I’m praying for all the families and everybody involved.” Another witness, Laura Santacruz, shared her feelings of heartbreak after seeing injured passengers being loaded into ambulances. “It broke my heart,” she said.
Community Support and Response
The Montvale and Rockland County communities have rallied around the victims and their families, offering emotional and practical support. Local officials, including Governor Phil Murphy, expressed their concern and vowed to support the affected families. 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 crash.
A Stark Reminder of Road Safety
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can occur on the road. The school bus, typically a symbol of safety and care, became the site of a devastating crash. While accidents are often unavoidable, this tragedy highlights the critical need for heightened road safety awareness.
The community of Montvale, along with residents of Rockland County and beyond, is demonstrating remarkable strength and unity as they support the victims and their families during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with the young boy who remains in critical condition, as well as with all those affected by the crash. As the investigation continues, the hope remains that those injured will find the strength and healing they need.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all those impacted by this heart-wrenching tragedy. May the young boy fighting for his life receive the care and strength needed for his recovery, and may all those injured find peace in the days ahead.