A devastating accident occurred early Friday morning on Interstate 95 in Stafford County, Virginia, when a bus collided with vehicles slowing for a work zone. The crash resulted in the deaths of five individuals from Massachusetts and left dozens injured, including the bus driver.
The incident took place at approximately 2:35 a.m. near Quantico. According to state police, the bus failed to slow down for traffic, striking six vehicles. Tragically, all five fatalities were occupants of the vehicles hit by the bus. Among the deceased were four members of a family from Greenfield, Massachusetts: a 45-year-old male, a 44-year-old female, a 13-year-old female, and a 7-year-old male. The fifth victim was a 25-year-old female from Worcester, Massachusetts, who was in an SUV.
Community Response
The mayor of Greenfield, Virginia Desorgher, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of four local residents, stating that the community stands united in mourning and support for the affected families. The city has pledged to provide resources and care to those impacted by this tragedy.
In total, 44 people were transported to hospitals, with three in critical condition. Mary Washington Healthcare reported receiving 19 patients, with several in serious to critical condition.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
The bus, operated by E&P Travel Inc. of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, was carrying approximately 34 passengers. The driver, identified as Jing S. Dong from Staten Island, New York, is currently under investigation, with charges pending.
The National Transportation Safety Board has dispatched a team to investigate the crash, highlighting ongoing concerns about interstate passenger bus safety. Previous investigations have identified driver-related issues as significant factors in similar accidents.
The southbound lanes of I-95 were reopened by noon, though traffic delays persisted. E&P Travel Inc. has a satisfactory safety rating, with minimal prior incidents, according to federal records.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
