New York State Trooper Struck By Pickup Truck is a Hudson Valley Native

Fundraisers have begun to help the New York State Trooper and the tow truck driver who were hit by a pick-up truck while standing on the side of an Upstate New York highway.

Earlier this month we told you about an awful accident that happened on the southbound side of I-87 in Upstate New York that involved a New York State Trooper and a local tow truck operator. Both the NYS Trooper and the tow truck driver were struck by a pick-up truck that was passing by leading to both of them sustaining severe injuries. Both were transported to Albany Medical Center to receive treatment.

Trooper from Mahopac, New York

The New York State Trooper injured in the crash has been identified as Nicholas Abbondola, a Mahopac, NY native who remains in stable condition at Albany Medical Center. Abbondola, who joined the State Police in October 2023, sustained severe injuries in the crash including numerous fractures and other injuries which required multiple surgeries. His recovery is underway and now the folks at the Signal 30 NYS Troopers Benefit Fund have set up a fundraiser to support Abbondola and his family through his rehabilitation.

SEE ALSO: Car Slams Into Work Zone Barrier on New York Highway

According to the fundraising page, the fund has been established due to the overwhelming request to support Nick during this difficult time. If you would like to donate, you can do that online here.

Tow Trucker Driver Fundraiser

The tow truck driver injured in the crash has been identified as 29-year-old Brett M. Dempsey from Clifton Park, NY and just like Trooper Abbondola, he will need extensive time to recover from his injuries. Friends have started a GoFundMe to help Dempsey and his family through his recovery and hospital bills. When a family friend started the page it explained that Brett, along with his partner Marissa have three beautiful kids and just had their fourth baby about a month ago. Marissa is still on maternity leave so the goal is to avoid her having to go back to work before her leave is up and to help with medical expenses and the holidays.

The fundraiser started with a $6,000 goal and at last check was well over $20,000. Let's keep it going by making a donation online here.