State trooper, tow truck driver struck by a passing pickup on Northway in Colonie

A state trooper and a tow truck driver were both struck by a passing pickup truck. The soldier was seriously injured. The driver of the tow truck suffered minor injuries, police said.

It happened Saturday afternoon around 12:30 p.m., during a traffic stop on the southbound Northway near Exit 6 and Exit 7 in Colonie, investigators said.

A vehicle was being loaded onto a tow truck for traffic violations when the tow truck driver and the officer were struck, investigators said.

The driver of the pickup stopped and is currently in state police custody. Several witnesses called 911, investigators said. Indictments were expected later Saturday, investigators said.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call state police at 518-457-6811 or email [email protected].

The New York State Troopers PBA released this statement:

“We are deeply shocked that, for the second time in less than a week, one of our brothers has been seriously injured in a vehicle-related incident while at work.

“This once again underscores the inherent danger of our profession and the incredible bravery of all troopers who potentially put their lives on the line every day while working to keep New Yorkers safe. The recklessness displayed in this incident is inexcusable. Incidents like this can easily be fatal, and we are incredibly grateful that this did not happen here.

“The PBA will continue to support the soldier who was injured in Colonie, as well as all our members who have been injured in the line of duty, and hope for their speedy and full recovery.”