New York State Police are still investigating the serious bus crash that occurred on Thursday on Interstate 84 in the town of Wawayanda.
As of Friday afternoon, twenty-two students have been discharged from local hospitals. Five students remain in critical condition.
77-year-old Beatrice Ferrari, of Farmingdale, was pronounced dead at Westchester Medical Center and 43-year-old Gina Pellettiere, of Massapequa, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Pellettiere was listed as the school’s Director of Bands on its website. She was the chairperson of the Nassau All-County Division 5 Symphonic Band for many years, as well as guest conductor for both Nassau and Suffolk All-County Festivals, according to the school’s website.
A faulty front tire was a factor in the crash, the governor and investigators said.
State police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or the bus before the crash to please contact the New York State Police at Troop F Headquarters at 845-344-5300. They are also asking the public to check if they have any dash camera videos that may have recorded the incident. The passing lane on Interstate 84 westbound near mile marker 11 is closed due to a follow-up investigation.