Mercy Flight coordinates large response after Thruway crash

Mercy Flight led one of its largest responses after a fatal bus crash on I-90, underscoring the power of coordinated rescue work.

Mercy Flight highlights teamwork after Thruway bus crash

Pembroke, N.Y. — a bus crash on I-90 Friday afternoon killed five people and triggered a large rescue response. Mercy Flight said five helicopters and 17 EMS units were involved, with crews airlifting patients and transporting others to hospitals.

Ferrentino described the effort as one of Mercy Flight's largest responses, praising dispatchers and both on duty and off duty staff for stepping in. "All I could do up there, in addition to provider supporters, was pray for the victims and the safety of the first responders, and from where it appears right now, everybody's safe, everybody's been taken care of. This is what I spent my career hoping to achieve." The leader added that the teamwork among helicopters, ambulances, and off duty staff illustrates how prepared first responders are.

Mercy Flight issued a statement expressing gratitude to the agencies involved and to the public who sent prayers. It said in part: "It was a trying afternoon for us. Our hearts go out to all those involved in this afternoon's tragedy on I-90." The release also thanked receiving hospitals and supporters who "prayed for the patients, their families, us and other first responders."

The response shows how training translates into action when chaos hits. When multiple agencies work in harmony, access to more helicopters and EMS units can save lives and reduce delays in care. The commendation of off duty staff highlights an often overlooked strength in emergency systems: a pool of committed personnel who can surge when needed. At the same time, the episode invites reflection on resources and support for frontline teams, including mental health and long term sustainability after mass casualty events.

Highlights

The scene on I-90 will inform how teams prepare for the next call and how communities support those who respond