Update: Drugs and alcohol not a factor in fatal Delaware bus crash [video]

Police are continuing to investigate the cause of a bus crash that killed two women on Sunday.

According to Delaware State Police, a preliminary investigation determined that drugs and alcohol were not a factor in the crash.

The accident happened around 4:20 p.m. Sunday, when the New York-bound bus, which was traveling southbound on Route 1 in New Castle, lost control while exiting onto U.S. 13 northbound.

Hua’y Chen, a 54 year old woman from New York City, died at the scene. A second woman, 30-year-old Idil Bahsi, of Istanbul, Turkey, suffered multiple traumatic injuries and died at the hospital Sunday night.

Police said 15 passengers are being treated at various local hospitals including three victims who are in critical condition at the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center.

The Blood Bank of Delmarva is asking for blood and platelet donations to replenish their supply at local hospitals that responded to the crash.

“Due to this horrific accident, demand on our supplies to treat these patients is very high, which is why we are appealing to dedicated donors in the community, as well as to new donors, who may be able to help us,” Michael Waite of the Blood Bank of Delmarva.

“We urge anyone who can to schedule an appointment. Walk‐in donors are also encouraged and will be accommodated. While O Negative blood and AB platelets are our most immediate need, all types are welcome and will help us replenish our local supplies.”

The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, the Delaware State Police Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program Unit and the National Transportation Safety Board are still investigating the crash.