LANCASTER, N.Y. (Aug. 22, 2025) — Six volunteer firefighters from Lancaster were the first to arrive at Friday’s mass-casualty bus accident on Interstate 90, where more than 50 people were involved, officials said.

The crew, ranging in age from 50 to 72, assessed the scene, requested mutual aid from several counties, and worked to keep dispatch updated while helping with rescue and recovery efforts, according to the department.

Dozens of agencies ultimately responded, including partners from the Town of Lancaster and Alden. Fire officials credited teamwork across jurisdictions with saving lives during the incident.

The department said the crash highlighted the challenges small volunteer companies face in staffing daytime calls and used the event as a call for new members.

“This isn’t about heroics or comparison. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors,” the department said in a statement.