Tour Bus Crash on Thruway: Driver Arrested After 5 Killed

The tragic tour bus crash on the Thruway in western New York this summer has led to the arrest of the driver. Bin Shao, a 56-year-old resident of Queens, faces serious charges following the incident that claimed five lives.

Details of the Incident

On August 22, at approximately 12:20 p.m., Shao was driving a 2005 Van Hool Bus and Coach tour bus eastbound on Interstate 90 in Pembroke when he lost control. Reports indicate that the bus veered into the median, followed by an overcorrection that caused the bus to tip onto its side in a ditch.

Casualties and Injuries

• Five passengers died at the scene.
• Forty-nine others sustained various injuries, ranging from minor cuts to more severe trauma.
• Injured passengers were transported to six hospitals in the Rochester and Buffalo areas.

Legal Proceedings

State Police announced that Shao has been charged with five counts each of second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. During a news conference, Genesee County District Attorney Kevin T. Finnell reported that Shao did not exhibit signs of drug or alcohol impairment. However, it was noted that distraction played a role in the crash, though specifics were not provided.

Arraignment and Bail

Shao was arraigned on a sealed indictment and is currently held in the Genesee County Jail. His bail is set at $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond, and $400,000 partially secured bond. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Consequences of Charges

Second-degree manslaughter is classified as a Class C felony, potentially resulting in a prison sentence of five to fifteen years upon conviction. Meanwhile, criminally negligent homicide is categorized as a Class E felony, with potential sentencing between 16 months and four years.

Next Steps in the Case

Shao’s case has been scheduled for a discovery conference in Genesee County Court on March 9. The legal proceedings will continue to unfold as the investigation into the bus crash remains a critical focus.

The bus, owned by M&Y Tour Inc. from Staten Island, was reportedly returning to New York City after a trip to Niagara Falls when the accident occurred. The incident prompted a massive emergency response, involving over 300 firefighters, police officers, and paramedics.