Rush-Hour Mayhem: Multi-Bus Crash Shuts Down Port Authority Terminal
On the morning of July 2, 2025, a serious multi-bus collision occurred on an inbound ramp to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan, causing mass disruption to thousands of commuters during peak travel hours. At least twelve people were injured, with one driver requiring extrication from the vehicle. Early investigations suggest the possibility of a medical emergency contributing to the crash.
NJ Transit temporarily suspended bus service to and from the terminal, rerouting vehicles to Secaucus Junction, Newark Penn Station, and Hoboken Terminal, while cross-honoring tickets for alternate transport including PATH trains and NY Waterway ferries. Although service resumed by 10 a.m., delays persisted well into the day.
The crash highlights infrastructure and commuter safety concerns as the Port Authority continues its $10 billion terminal renovation, slated to continue through 2032. The incident underscores the need for robust emergency access planning, fleet safety audits, and greater commuter awareness during large-scale transit upgrades.
What Happened – At a Glance
- Time & Location: The crash occurred just before 6:20 a.m. on the fourth-level inbound ramp, near West 40th–41st Streets (CBS News).
- Chain Reaction: One bus apparently rear-ended another, instigating a chain reaction; some reports suggest a third bus also got involved (NBC New York).
- Casualties: A total of 12 to 14 people sustained non-life-threatening injuries. One driver suffered moderate injuries and was extricated using specialized rescue gear.
- Commuter Impact: The crash blocked the express bus ramp and triggered a terminal disruption, with gridlock at the Lincoln Tunnel and surrounding streets.
Emergency Response & Rescues
According to FDNY Deputy Chief Jason Saffon, the scene was hard to reach due to heavy traffic. Crews coordinated with Port Authority Police to reroute ambulances up the wrong way on an exit ramp to reach the injured parties.
One bus driver was trapped and had to be cut free — the operation required mechanical extrication. Saffon described the challenge:
“It required some extrication, meaning they had to use some equipment to free the patient.”
Transit Disruptions & Alternatives
With the Port Authority express bus ramp shut down, NJ Transit buses were rerouted to:
Commuters were advised to take advantage of cross-honored tickets on NJ Transit rail, PATH trains, and the NY Waterway ferry from Port Imperial.
By 10 a.m., the express ramp had reopened, and buses began returning to normal service — though delays up to 30 minutes continued through late morning.
Commuter Chaos: Firsthand Accounts
One commuter shared how vehicle gridlock delayed first responders:
“We were stuck in the tunnel for about 15 minutes… a bunch of fire trucks… and a whole bunch of other cops.”
These accounts capture the emotional toll and confusion that rippled through thousands of daily riders.
Why This Matters
- Thousands of commuters were affected: The Port Authority Bus Terminal handles around 26,000 riders each peak hour.
- The incident highlights the growing infrastructure pressure at one of the nation’s busiest transit hubs.
- Early reports indicate a bus driver may have suffered a medical emergency, raising concerns about operator health checks and fleet safety protocols.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are actively investigating the crash. Key angles include:
- Whether a driver medical event contributed to the crash.
- Ramp safety conditions and traffic visibility.
- Transit fleet maintenance and training standards.
With over 250 new buses recently introduced, maintenance records and driver shift schedules will be under close review.
What Commuters Should Know
If you’re impacted:
- Check NJ Transit alerts and traffic updates.
- Be ready to board at alternate terminals (Secaucus, Newark Penn, Hoboken).
- Use your bus pass on PATH, NJ Rail, or ferry alternatives.
- Expect extended commute times throughout the week.
The Road Ahead for Port Authority Terminal
The crash occurred amid a $10 billion Port Authority Terminal renovation:
- A temporary terminal on Dyer Avenue is already operational.
- Long-term upgrades will overhaul bus ramps, waiting areas, and passenger flow.
- Officials warn disruptions will continue during construction phases through 2032.
Final Word
While no fatalities were reported, the multi-bus crash exposed vulnerabilities in both transit infrastructure and emergency preparedness. As NJ Transit and the Port Authority evaluate protocols, commuters are urged to stay informed, remain flexible, and take advantage of multi-modal options.
Key takeaway: Allow extra time for your daily commute, monitor real-time alerts, and expect future delays as the Port Authority transformation continues.
