Trooper Nicholas Abbondola Injured in Serious Accident in Ballston Spa, NY on October 26, 2024

On November 2, around 12:30 p.m., a serious accident occurred on the Northway involving a state trooper and a tow truck driver. Jason Guerin, a 40-year-old man from Ballston Spa, allegedly crashed his 2023 Ford F-150 into both the trooper, Nicholas Abbondola, and the tow truck driver, Brett M. Dempsey, who was trying to assist another driver pulled over for a traffic violation. The crash took place near the southbound ramps of Exit 6 and Exit 7, where the officers had stopped another car that was being loaded onto a tow truck.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as Guerin’s pickup veered from its lane at high speed. One witness noted that both the trooper and the tow truck driver had little time to react before being hit. Another bystander remarked on how the trooper was standing near the rear of the tow truck when he was struck, causing him to roll between the vehicles. According to court documents, the impact severely injured Trooper Abbondola, who lost teeth and sustained a deep cut over his left eye, along with significant injuries to his arm and legs. Dempsey, the tow truck driver, was also knocked down but managed to get back up following the incident.

Further observations revealed that Guerin, who had allegedly used heroin before the crash, pulled over after the collision and expressed concern about the trooper's condition. He was found to be under the influence during the investigation, which uncovered his prior conviction for driving while intoxicated earlier in 2024. He now faces multiple charges, including aggravated vehicular assault, reckless driving, and several drug-related offenses.

The State Police are seeking additional witnesses who may have information on the incident to assist in their ongoing investigation. Anyone with potential insights is encouraged to reach out to State Police at 518-457-6811 or via email at michael.altieri@troopers.ny.gov.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, obtaining a police report can be crucial for recovery. It documents essential details about the incident, which are important for both insurance claims and legal proceedings. Remember, understanding your rights and taking immediate action after an accident can significantly impact your recovery path. Consult with a local accident law firm today to ensure you're protected. Call today!