Manhattan, NYC – A routine morning commute turned into a scene of terror today when an NJ Transit bus crashed at the Port Authority Bus Terminal, leaving at least 13 people injured and prompting a temporary shutdown of one of the busiest transportation hubs in the country.
The accident occurred shortly before 8:30 a.m., just as the terminal was filling with rush hour commuters. According to early reports from the NYPD and FDNY, the NJ Transit bus collided with a structure—possibly a gate or another vehicle—while entering the terminal on the 8th Avenue side. Witnesses described a terrifying moment as the bus veered suddenly, striking with enough force to toss several passengers from their seats.
“I just remember screaming and then hitting the floor,” one shaken passenger said. “People were crying. One woman had blood on her face. It all happened so fast.”
Emergency responders arrived within minutes. The FDNY confirmed that over a dozen people were injured, several seriously. Victims were quickly triaged, with 13 transported to nearby hospitals and others treated on site for cuts, bruises, and shock. As of this writing, no fatalities have been reported, but some victims remain in serious condition.
The Port Authority Bus Terminal was partially closed following the crash, disrupting countless commutes and forcing passengers to reroute their travel. Crowds poured into surrounding subway stations and city streets as terminal access was restricted to allow for emergency operations and an ongoing investigation.
NJ Transit officials confirmed the bus involved was part of its active fleet and stated they are working closely with Port Authority police and other agencies to determine the cause of the crash. Investigators are examining whether mechanical failure, driver error, or external factors contributed to the incident.
In a statement issued shortly after the crash, NJ Transit said:
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this morning’s accident. We are cooperating fully with investigators and are conducting our own internal review to understand what happened and how we can prevent incidents like this in the future.”
Port Authority echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that passenger safety remains a top priority and confirming that terminal surveillance footage is being reviewed as part of the probe.
The crash has shocked a city already weary from recent transit issues, sparking renewed concerns about infrastructure safety, operator training, and emergency preparedness in high-traffic transportation facilities.
Support has begun to pour in for the injured and their families. Several local churches and community organizations are reportedly mobilizing to offer assistance and spiritual care.
As investigators work to piece together the events that led to this frightening accident, Manhattan—and the wider NJ/NY commuter community—grapples with a morning that started like any other, but ended in fear, chaos, and heartbreak.
Further updates are expected from NJ Transit and Port Authority later this evening. Commuters are advised to check for service alerts before traveling.
Support the families. Pray for healing. And may we never take another morning commute for granted