MONTVALE, N.J. — A school bus carrying over 30 passengers overturned on the Garden State Parkway on Monday night, leaving 15 children injured, officials confirmed.
The crash occurred around 7:30 p.m. near mile marker 170.9 on the northbound side of the highway. Authorities say the bus was traveling from Lakewood, New Jersey, to New York State when it lost control and flipped onto its side.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene to assist the injured. The bus driver, identified as 44-year-old Joseph Itzkowitz, sustained moderate injuries. Thirteen other children were treated for minor injuries, while one individual suffered more serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital.
Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassali assured the public that there were no fatalities and thanked first responders for their efforts. Crews from surrounding towns provided assistance, along with emergency medical teams.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy stated that he had been briefed on the crash and that the New Jersey State Police and the Department of Transportation are actively investigating the cause of the accident.
Authorities have not yet released details about what led to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all those involved.
