Rollover Crash on I-190 Southbound Sends Two to Hospital – Grand Island Fire Responds Swiftly

GRAND ISLAND, NY — July 28, 2025 — A serious two-vehicle motor vehicle accident with a reported rollover and possible entrapment brought emergency crews racing to the scene Monday afternoon along I-190 Southbound, just before the Whitehaven Road overpass.

At approximately 2:45 p.m., the Grand Island Fire Company (GIFC) was dispatched following reports of a collision that may have involved one of the vehicles overturning, potentially trapping occupants inside. The location, a high-speed stretch of interstate near Whitehaven, prompted an urgent multi-agency response given the potential for serious injuries and traffic hazards.

Immediate Response & Initial Conditions

Rescue 1 was deployed, with Chief Omar Sortino arriving quickly to assume command of the scene. Upon arrival, first responders confirmed that both vehicles involved had sustained moderate damage, and each vehicle carried two occupants. Fortunately, all four individuals had self-extricated from the wreckage by the time rescue teams arrived.

Despite the initial concern of entrapment due to reports of a rollover, no patients were found trapped inside the vehicles.

Patient Evaluation & Transport

Emergency medical services provided by Twin City Ambulance evaluated all four individuals on-site. Two patients sustained injuries that warranted hospital care and were subsequently transported to local area hospitals for further evaluation and treatment. The remaining two individuals declined medical treatment, and no additional injuries were reported.

The identities and conditions of those transported have not yet been released, but officials noted that injuries were non-life-threatening based on initial EMS assessment.

Traffic Disruption and Safety Operations

To ensure the safety of emergency personnel and facilitate scene investigation and vehicle clearance, New York State Police, Grand Island Police, and New York State Thruway Authority personnel temporarily closed the southbound lanes of I-190 at Whitehaven Road. This allowed responders to work efficiently and safely in clearing the wreckage and assessing potential roadway damage.

Traffic was rerouted for nearly an hour, causing delays through the late afternoon. Southbound lanes were reopened after the vehicles were removed and debris cleared from the roadway.

Command and Communication Excellence

Throughout the response, Grand Island Fire Dispatch played a critical role by maintaining centralized radio communications and incident control. Notably, while active operations were ongoing at the MVA site, dispatchers also managed and coordinated a second EMS incident—demonstrating operational efficiency and preparedness under pressure.

Acknowledging a Unified Response

The Grand Island Fire Company extended heartfelt thanks to its partner agencies for the seamless coordination and timely response:

• Twin City Ambulance
• Medical Emergency Radio System (MERS)
• New York State Police
• Grand Island Police Department
• New York State Thruway Authority

“This incident could have been much worse, and we’re grateful that everyone made it out of their vehicles safely,” said Chief Sortino. “We thank all of our responding partners for their fast action and professionalism.”

Safety Reminder to the Public

Authorities continue to urge drivers to reduce speed in inclement weather and around construction or accident scenes, and to always yield to emergency vehicles. Quick thinking and cooperative driving from fellow motorists helped emergency responders do their job safely and efficiently during Monday’s operation.

 Summary:

• Incident: Two-vehicle MVA with possible rollover
• Date: Monday, July 28, 2025
• Location: I-190 Southbound near Whitehaven Road, Grand Island
• Injuries: 2 transported to area hospitals, 2 declined treatment
• Responding Agencies: Grand Island Fire Co., Twin City Ambulance, NYSP, Grand Island PD, NYS Thruway Authority
• Cause: Under investigation

This accident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of roadway emergencies and the lifesaving value of quick, coordinated responses from first responders.

For further updates or official statements from Grand Island authorities, stay connected to local channels.