Pickup Truck Strikes, Seriously Injures New York Trooper

A New York State trooper and tow truck driver were seriously injured when they were struck by a pickup truck early Saturday morning.

The New York State Police says the trooper had stopped a vehicle, and “due to a Vehicle and Traffic Law violation, the vehicle was being towed.”

State police said in a statement that the tow truck driver was loading the vehicle when a passing pickup truck struck the tow truck driver and the trooper.

Trooper Nicholas Abbondola suffered multiple fractures and other injuries during the collision. “He has undergone lengthy surgeries to repair some of the injuries, but additional surgeries are expected to be necessary along with extensive rehabilitation. He remains in stable condition with his family and fellow Troopers by his side to support and strengthen him, the State Police said on Facebook.

The tow truck operator was treated and released at the hospital and is healing at home. His injuries will also require a long recovery and the State Police says they are serious.

Jason J. Guerin, 40, of Malta, New York, has been identified as the pickup truck driver. Guerin stopped and remained on scene following the collision, where he was taken into custody, the State Police said.

Guerin has been charged with the following:

• Aggravated Vehicular Assault in the first degree, a class “C” felony

• Assault in the second degree, a class “D” felony

• Driving While Ability Impaired by drugs

• Numerous other Vehicle and Traffic Law violation

Guerin has had a previous DWI conviction in the last 10 years.