Twenty people are dead following a horrific wedding limousine crash in upstate New York on Saturday. Two vehicles were involved in the crash, which occurred just before 2pm at the intersection of State Route 30 and State Route 30A.
Local officials said the limo was speeding down a hill and crashed into bystanders in front of the popular Apple Barrel County Store in Schoharie.
The SUV-style stretch limousine was reportedly carrying a wedding party on the way to the reception when it collided with the other vehicle.
Family have identified Erin and Shane McGowan, who were guests at the wedding, as two of the victims. Eighteen of the victims were in the limo and two were bystanders, according to the Associated Press.
Witnesses said several bodies could be seen on the ground outside the store.
Bridey Finnegan, who lived near the crash site, said she heard a 'loud bang' when the two vehicles collided in front of Apple Barrel, a store popular with tourists.
'I heard a loud bang, I came out my front door to see what was going on,' she told WTEN.
'I saw a lot of people here at the Apple Barrel out in the parking lot. Then I heard screaming.'
'Then I saw this large van, a very unusual looking vehicle out here in Schoharie in the bushes and really wrecked, hit a tree.'
Finnegan said she watched as first responders broke windows to try and rescue people inside. The Schoharie County Sheriff's Office, New York State Police, and emergency crews from the Red Cross all responded to the scene.
Six ambulances, three fire companies, and two helicopters were at the accident site, according to the Albany Times Union.
Witnesses also saw people running out of the Apple Barrel cafe to try and help after the accident.
Apple Barrel closed following the crash on Saturday and released a statement about the tragic incident on Facebook.
'As you may be aware, there was a horrific accident in front of our business today,' the statement read. 'First, we want to thank all of the emergency services that responded. We are so thankful for all of you.'
'We will be open for business for tomorrow. We hope you will come and share your smiles, love, friendship and hugs with us. We also hope you will share your change. We will be collecting donations for our local volunteer emergency services. They are the heroes of our small community.'
'Our hearts and prayers go out to everyone that was affected by the events of today. You will always be part of our family.'
The National Transportation Safety Board is sending a 'go-team' to the crash site from Washington DC, which are used to investigate major accidents.
Alan Tavenner, the Schoharie Town Supervisor, said the state's Department of Transportation tried to make the intersection safer seven years ago, but that the changes did little to help.
'There have been tractor trailers that have come barreling down that hill and it was a miracle they didn't kill somebody,' he said.
The crash occurred during the city's 'Old Stone Fort' weekend, which residents said is the biggest tourism day of the year for the small town.
