TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) — One person is dead as the result of a crash involving an NFTA Paratransit bus Wednesday morning.

Three people were on the bus at the time of the crash, and all three were taken to ECMC. The person who died, 60-year-old Chequita Smith, had been an NFTA employee for more than nine years, working as an operator and instructor.

“Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Chequita have lost a dear friend,” the NFTA said. “No words can adequately express our sadness. We ask that you please keep Chequita’s family and friends in your prayers.”

NFTA’s Paratransit Access Line (PAL) service provides rides for those eligible under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The fatal incident, which took place in Tonawanda, was reported shortly after 6 a.m. It temporarily closed off the I-190 southbound ramp to I-290 eastbound, near the South Grand Island Bridge.

A heavy police presence and nearly four miles of delays were seen on I-190 during the morning.