05/05/2024
[May 5th 2024] Around 6:00 am, A call for service was dispatched on JFK Hwy Northbound around the 79.5 mile marker involving a bus with multiple patients. Harford County 9-1-1 dispatch alerted Abingdon Fire Company - MD, Joppa Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company, The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company, Aberdeen Fire Department, Inc., several EMS transport units, the On-duty EMS supervisor with the MCI trailer, a deputy director, and the Special Operations Team with the Harford County Department of Emergency Services. Maryland State Police JFK Barrack, Harford County Sheriff's Office, and ground paramedic/troopers from Maryland State Police - Aviation Command, Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) also responded to assist with the incident.
First arriving units arrived and noted within an approximate 1/2 mile span there was multiple patients. A commercial paramedic ambulance with Medcare arrived first on scene along with an off duty DC Fire And EMS paramedic and declared a Mass Cassulty Incident (MCI) having approximately 25 patients. Additional transport units were requested along with additional suppression units. Incident Command (IC) was established as medical personnel began to assess the severity of Injuries. With an uncertainty of the total occupants that were involved, fire suppression crews began to canvas the surrounding wood line with Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC).
IC requested additional transport units from within the county. In conjunction with Maryland State Police, Harford County Special Operations Team, total number of occupants was accounted and all patients requiring or requesting transport to either a local ED or regional trauma center with one occupant succumbing to their injuries and being pronounced deceased on the scene. During the incident, Harford County Dispatch notified all regional hospitals within the vicinity.
After a short time, IC advised the incident was stabilized as all patients accounted were transported. Fire Suppression units on location began to clear up. Maryland State Police remained on location for accident investigation and traffic control.
All media inquires should be directed to Maryland State Police.