State Trooper Released from Hospital After Being Hit by Tractor on New York State Thruway

A New York State Trooper who sustained serious injuries after being struck by a tractor during a traffic stop on the Thruway in Schenectady County has been released from the hospital, marking a positive development in what could have been a tragic incident.

The Incident

The crash occurred on Friday, June 6, 2025, at approximately 12:30 p.m. on the westbound New York State Thruway (Interstate 90) near Exit 26 in Pattersonville, Schenectady County. According to the New York State Police, the trooper was conducting a routine traffic stop involving a Honda Odyssey when a tractor—not pulling a trailer—struck the rear of the patrol vehicle.

The devastating impact caused the patrol car to collide with the Honda and threw the trooper, who was standing on the passenger side of the stopped vehicle, over the guardrail and down an embankment. The force of the collision completely obliterated the police cruiser, with images showing the mangled vehicle perched atop the flattened guardrail.

Injuries and Medical Response

The trooper suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was immediately transported to Albany Medical Center. In a positive update, Spectrum News reported that the trooper was released from the hospital Friday night.

The driver and passenger of the Honda Odyssey involved in the original traffic stop sustained minor injuries and were taken to St. Mary’s Hospital in Amsterdam for treatment.

Traffic Impact and Investigation

The crash forced the closure of all westbound lanes of the Thruway at Exit 26 for several hours while emergency crews responded and investigators worked to determine the cause of the collision. A traffic diversion was established at Exit 26 to manage the significant disruption to this heavily traveled corridor.

The New York State Thruway serves as a vital transportation artery connecting various regions across the state, including the Syracuse area, making incidents like this one particularly impactful for regional traffic flow.

Official Statements and Move Over Law Emphasis

Charles Murphy, President of the New York State Troopers PBA, issued a statement emphasizing the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers: “Today’s incident is a sobering reminder of the risks faced by our members every day, when even a standard traffic stop can turn into a serious situation in an instant.”

State police used the incident to highlight the critical importance of New York’s Move Over Law, stating: “The incident is a powerful reminder: New York’s Move Over Law is not optional. When you see emergency, police, fire, or highway crews on the shoulder – slow down and move over. Lives depend on it.”

Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara also commented on the incident, calling it “a stark reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face every day while working to keep our roads safe” and emphasizing that “when you see flashing lights—slow down and move over. It’s a simple act that protects the lives of those who protect us.”

Broader Safety Implications

This incident comes shortly after another tragic event involving a state highway maintenance worker who was killed after being struck by a motorist in a work zone on Route 7 in Pittstown, underscoring the ongoing dangers faced by those who work along New York’s roadways.

The crash serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement officers and other first responders during roadside operations. It reinforces the critical importance of driver vigilance and adherence to Move Over laws when approaching emergency or work zones.

Regional Significance

While the incident occurred in Schenectady County, its location on the heavily traveled New York State Thruway makes it a matter of regional interest. The Thruway acts as a vital artery connecting various regions, and incidents anywhere along this corridor can have ripple effects on traffic patterns and serve as important safety reminders for all motorists throughout the state.

The trooper’s successful release from the hospital represents the best possible outcome from what could have been a much more tragic situation, highlighting both the dangers of roadside work and the importance of following traffic safety laws designed to protect those who serve and protect our communities.