A charter bus carrying bagpipers crashed into a tractor-trailer Sunday evening, sending several passengers to hospitals. The group had just finished performing at a St. Patrick's Day parade. Authorities quickly responded to the scene, launching an investigation into the collision.
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The accident occurred shortly before 6:30 p.m. on westbound Interstate 84 in northeastern Pennsylvania. As the bus exited the highway, it slammed into an unoccupied tractor-trailer. Jefferson Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief Mike Shaffer, speaking to WBRE-TV/WYOU-TV, confirmed the details. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper First Class Robert Urban reported 17 people on the bus suffered minor injuries.
Investigators are now digging into the cause. Trooper Urban dismissed weather as a factor in the crash. Instead, authorities are focusing on other possible reasons, with the investigation still underway.
The bus was transporting the Greater Scranton Black Diamonds Pipe Band. Earlier that day, the group had marched in a parade in Milford. Bill Hetherson, the band's business manager, said they were heading back to Scranton when the crash disrupted their journey.
Bus Scrash Disrupts Festive Day
Hospitals promptly treated the injured, and the band remains optimistic. Hetherson expressed confidence that everyone will fully recover. In response to the incident, the group canceled their Monday St. Patrick's Day events. However, some members still performed solo, he added.
The crash cast a shadow over a celebratory day. St. Patrick's Day parades are a highlight for pipe bands like the Black Diamonds, who entertain crowds with traditional music. Known locally for their talent, the group often plays at regional festivities.
Authorities have withheld the names of the injured. At the scene, police and fire crews worked efficiently to manage the situation. Fortunately, the empty tractor-trailer posed no further threat, as no one was inside.
The incident stands out as an unusual setback for the band. Members voiced relief that the injuries were not severe. "We're lucky it wasn't worse," Hetherson said, a sentiment shared by many in the group.
Looking ahead, the band aims to resume performances once everyone heals. For now, their priority is recovery following the unexpected crash. Authorities expect to release more details as the investigation progresses, shedding light on what triggered the collision on Interstate 84.
