Two dramatic vehicle fires in Rockland this week—one on the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge and another in Nyack—have reminded local drivers to stay vigilant on the roads.
The more serious incident occurred on Friday, November 21, 2025, when a Hudson Link commuter bus traveling southbound toward Westchester suddenly caught fire just before 1:40 p.m. State Police said the driver heard a loud noise near the back of the bus and pulled over immediately. Thanks to the quick response, all four passengers and the driver exited safely before flames spread.
Tarrytown Fire Chief Patrick Derivan described the fire as “appeared to be of a mechanical nature.” The State Department of Environmental Conservation responded to contain a small diesel spill, noting the environmental impact was “anticipated to be minimal.” State Police confirmed that no other vehicles were involved and no injuries were reported.
The incident briefly closed two southbound lanes, creating backups for commuters. Some witnesses shared on social media that they could see smoke rising from the bridge and described the scene as “shocking” but were relieved everyone got out safely.
Officials reminded drivers that if they notice unusual sounds, smoke, or the smell of burning in their vehicles, the safest step is to pull over immediately, turn off the engine, and move everyone at least 100 feet away from the vehicle before calling 911. One Rockland commuter wrote online, “Seeing that bus fire really shook people up. You never think it could happen to you.”
Just days earlier, on November 19, 2025, a car fire on Route 59 in Nyack required a quick response from the Nanuet Fire Department and Clarkstown Police. A sedan became fully engulfed, but all occupants escaped safely. Officials said there is no connection to the bus fire, though the close timing has raised awareness among drivers. Residents who saw the smoke shared video and photos online, prompting discussions about vehicle maintenance and highway safety.
Local elected officials also weighed in. One lawmaker posted, “We’re grateful no one was hurt. Mechanical fires can happen, but two in one week is a reminder to check your cars and stay alert.” Another praised the rapid response of volunteer and municipal fire departments, adding, “Rockland residents are lucky to have such dedicated first responders.”
Authorities emphasized that both fires remain under routine investigation and that no criminal activity is suspected. As winter approaches and holiday travel increases, officials encourage drivers to keep small fire extinguishers in vehicles and to always react quickly at the first sign of smoke or unusual noises.
By combining awareness with proper precautions, Rockland drivers can avoid injuries and minimize property damage in case of unexpected mechanical fires.