A tragic and devastating incident occurred on Monday evening, March 10, 2025, on the Garden State Parkway in Montvale, New Jersey. A school bus, carrying passengers from Lakewood, New Jersey, to Rockland County, New York, crashed, leaving 15 people injured, including a 14-year-old boy who is fighting for his life. The accident took place around 7:30 p.m. on the northbound side of the parkway, just north of Exit 171, close to the James Gandolfini Service Area. The scene was one of confusion, panic, and heartbreak as first responders rushed to help the victims and ensure their safety.
The bus, which was seen overturned and facing the wrong way on the highway, had skid marks leading up to a nearby embankment. This suggested that the driver may have lost control of the vehicle suddenly before it overturned. The sight of the overturned bus was chilling, with the vehicle’s top pressed against the asphalt, trapping passengers inside. As emergency responders arrived, they were faced with a dire situation, as one of the passengers, a 14-year-old boy, was trapped beneath the overturned bus.
The boy, who sustained serious injuries, was pinned underneath the bus, prompting immediate rescue efforts from first responders. Thanks to their swift action and expertise, the boy was extricated from beneath the vehicle and rushed to a nearby hospital. Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassali later shared on social media that the boy was in critical condition, fighting for his life. His family and loved ones are no doubt clinging to hope, as the entire community sends their prayers for his recovery.
In addition to the 14-year-old boy, 14 other individuals were treated for injuries, including the 44-year-old bus driver and 13 other passengers. Thankfully, the majority of the passengers sustained only minor injuries, but the emotional and physical toll on everyone involved is immeasurable. First responders worked quickly to treat those injured, and ambulances from Rockland County were on standby to assist with the medical needs of the victims.
Witnesses who were at the scene described the gravity of the situation, with some recalling seeing passengers being loaded into ambulances with visible injuries. One witness, Liam Deacy, shared his distress after seeing a passenger with severe head injuries and extensive blood loss. He stated, “It just did not look good. I’m praying for all the families and everybody involved.” The sight of such injuries, especially to young passengers, was undoubtedly traumatic for those who witnessed it.
Laura Santacruz, another witness, shared her feelings as she observed the chaotic scene unfold outside her window. “Outside our window, you could see somebody being loaded onto an ambulance. It broke my heart,” she said. The emotional impact of witnessing such a traumatic event has left many in the community struggling to process the gravity of what happened.
The local community in Montvale, as well as nearby Rockland County, has rallied around the victims and their families, offering support, comfort, and well-wishes. The families of the injured passengers are undoubtedly facing an overwhelming burden as they deal with the aftermath of the crash. Local officials, including Gov. Phil Murphy, expressed their concern for the victims and reassured the public that all efforts would be made to provide support for those affected.
The response to the accident was swift and coordinated, with first responders working tirelessly through the night to clear the wreckage and ensure the safety of all those involved. The gravity of the situation underscored the importance of road safety and the role of emergency responders in managing high-stress situations. Their quick and efficient actions helped mitigate further damage and ensured that those injured received immediate medical attention.
As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, New Jersey State Police have yet to release further details. The investigation will likely look into a variety of factors, including road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and the behavior of the driver at the time of the crash. The community and the victims’ families will likely be waiting anxiously for updates as authorities continue their work.
This tragic accident has left a deep scar on the Montvale community, and residents are rallying around the victims and their families. Community members are coming together to offer emotional support and provide assistance in whatever way they can. The hope is that those affected will receive the care and comfort they need during this incredibly difficult time.
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise on the roads and the importance of being vigilant while driving. While accidents are often unavoidable, the need for greater attention to road safety remains critical. It is a tragic irony that a school bus, a symbol of care and responsibility, became the site of such a devastating crash. The impact on the victims, their families, and the community will be long-lasting, and the road to recovery for those involved will undoubtedly be a challenging one.
In the wake of this tragedy, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of communities in the face of hardship. The people of Montvale, along with those in Rockland County and beyond, are showing the power of unity and support during this time of sorrow. The injured passengers, especially the young boy who remains in critical condition, are in the thoughts and prayers of all who have heard of this tragic event. As the investigation unfolds, the hope remains that those affected by this crash will receive the support they need to heal physically and emotionally.
Our thoughts go out to the families of the victims and all those affected by this tragic accident. May the young boy fighting for his life receive the strength and care he needs, and may all those who suffered injuries find peace and healing in the days to come.
