**UPDATE** State Police investigating Northway collision that left Trooper hospitalized

UPDATE November 4, 2024 

The Trooper involved in Saturday’s collision is Trooper Nicholas Abbondola.  Trooper Abbondola joined the State Police in October 2023 and graduated from the 214th session.  He is currently assigned to Troop G on the Latham Interstate Patrol.  

Trooper Abbondola sustained 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 Tow Truck Operator has been identified as Brett M. Dempsey, 29, of Clifton Park, NY. Mr. Dempsey has been discharged from the hospital and is healing at home. His injuries will also require a long recovery. 

Our prayers and thoughts continue to go out to Trooper Abbondola, Mr. Dempsey, and their families during this difficult time. 

New York State Police wants to emphasize the importance of seeking treatment for substance or alcohol addiction. This incident is a tragedy that could have been easily avoided. The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Support has a 24/7 toll-free and confidential HOPEline. If you are in need, please call 1-877-846-7369 or visit their website at https://oasas.ny.gov/treatment.

UPDATE November 3, 2024 

The Trooper, who was involved in the collision, is currently listed in stable condition at Albany Medical Center. 

The tow truck operator involved has been determined to have more serious injuries (previously published as minor injuries) following evaluation and treatment they were discharged from the hospital to recover at home. 

Our thoughts are with both of them and their families during this difficult time. 

Jason J. Guerin, 40, of Malta, NY, has been identified as the pick-up truck driver.  Guerin stopped and remained on scene following the collision, where he was taken into custody.  He 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 ten years. 

Following the incident, Guerin was taken to SP Latham for processing. Where he was evaluated by a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE), and samples were taken to determine the drug content of his blood.  Guerin was arraigned at the Colonie Town Court on November 3, 2024, where he was remanded to the Albany County Correctional Facility without bail.

Original- posted November 2, 2024On November 2, 2024, at about 12:28 p.m., Troopers responded to reports of a Trooper being struck by a passing vehicle while on a traffic stop on I-87 (Northway) southbound just before the exit 6-7 off-ramp in Colonie, NY. The investigation has determined that the Trooper had stopped a vehicle, and due to a Vehicle and Traffic Law violation, the vehicle was being towed.

While loading the vehicle onto the tow truck, the Trooper, and the tow truck operator were outside their vehicles when a passing pick-up truck struck them. The tow truck operator sustained minor injuries and was transported for medical evaluation. The Trooper sustained severe injuries and is still being evaluated at Albany Medical Center.

Following the collision, the pick-up truck driver and multiple witnesses stopped and contacted 911. The driver is currently in State Police custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information related to this incident is asked to contact State Police at 518-457-6811 or email [email protected]

All further updates will be added to this release as they become available.