Police have released the names of the state trooper and tow truck driver injured after being struck by a truck on the Northway on Saturday.

Trooper Nicholas Abbondola and tow truck driver Brett M. Dempsey, 29, of Clifton Park, were on the Northway Exit 6 and Exit 7 southbound off-ramp just before 12:30 p.m. The trooper had stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation, and it was being towed. The vehicle was being loaded onto the tow truck, when both Abbondola and Dempsey were struck by a passing vehicle.

Both were severely injured. Dempsey has been released from the hospital and is recovering at home, State Police said. His injuries will take a long time to heal.

Trooper Abbondola has been with the State Police since October 2023. He had multiple fractures and other injuries. He has undergone lengthy surgeries and more are expected, according to police. He will require extensive rehabilitation.

State Police are extending their prayers to Abbondola and Dempsey and their families.

The driver of the pickup truck stopped and contacted 911. Jason J. Guerin, 40, was charged with aggravated vehicular assault, assault, driving while ability impaired by drugs and other vehicle and traffic violations.

Police said he has a previous DWI conviction within the last 10 years.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is asked to contact State Police at 518-457-6811 or email michael.altieri@troopers.ny.gov.

In addition, New York State Police are reminding people to seek treatment for substance or alcohol addiction to avoid these types of tragedies.

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.

Jason Guerin