BUFFALO, N.Y. — ConnectLife is urging Western New Yorkers to donate blood immediately following a major accident on the New York State Thruway that left multiple people critically injured.

Victims were transported from the crash scene to local hospitals by both ambulance and helicopter, creating what officials described as an urgent and life-threatening need for blood.

"Our community is facing a crisis," Sarah Diina, senior director of communications and external affairs at ConnectLife, said in a statement Friday, as the severity of the crash became apparent.

"We are urging all eligible donors to act now. Blood is needed immediately to treat patients who are fighting for their lives."

ConnectLife is the primary blood supplier for Erie County Medical Center and Kaleida Health hospitals.

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