STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. (7News) — A chain-reaction crash involving a motorcoach bus on Interstate 95 has left five people dead and dozens injured early on May 29.
The incident occurred around 2:35 a.m. on I-95 southbound near mile marker 146, approximately two miles south of the Quantico exit. Authorities reported that the bus, operated by E&P Travel, collided with a Chevrolet Suburban, which subsequently struck an Acura SUV and multiple other vehicles.
Five individuals died in the crash, including two children aged 13 and 7. The remaining victims consisted of a 45-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman, and a 25-year-old woman. A total of 44 people were taken to hospitals, with three sustaining critical injuries. The victims were primarily from Greenfield, Massachusetts.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Virginia State Police (VSP) are investigating the crash. A preliminary report is anticipated within 30 days, while a final report may take up to 24 months.
State police revealed that the bus was carrying about 34 passengers when it collided. The driver, Jing Sheng Dong, 48, from Staten Island, New York, suffered injuries and has been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter. Dong is currently hospitalized and will remain in custody pending court appearance.
Emergency responders transported victims to Mary Washington Healthcare, where 19 patients were treated. As of Saturday afternoon, 15 had been discharged, while four remained hospitalized, one critically.
Authorities continue to seek witness statements and video evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.