Malta man accused of hitting Trooper, tow truck driver

COLONIE, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A Malta man is remanded to Albany County Jail without bail after allegedly hitting a New York State Police Trooper and tow truck driver just before Exit 7 on the Northway on Saturday. Troopers said Jason J. Guerin, 40, is charged with first-degree aggravated vehicular assault, driving while ability impaired by drugs, and more.

Law enforcement and emergency services responded to the crash around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday. State Police said the Trooper was conducting a traffic stop which required a vehicle to be towed when a passing pick-up truck, with the driver later identified as Guerin, hit the Trooper and tow truck driver and caused severe injuries to both of them.

State Police said Guerin stayed on the scene after the collision and called 911. Troopers said Guerin has prior DWI convictions within the last 10 years.

Police said the tow truck driver's injuries were upgraded from minor to major after being treated. He was discharged on Sunday and is recovering at home. A GoFundMe has collected over $14,000 in donations for the tow truck driver and his family.

State Police Troop G said the Trooper was in stable condition on Sunday. The Trooper sustained multiple fractures, which will require surgeries and a long road to recovery.

A Drug Recognition Expert evaluated Guerin, and blood samples were taken to determine what drugs were in his system. Guerin was arraigned in Colonie Town Court on Sunday.

Charges

• First-degree aggravated vehicular assault
• Second-degree assault
• Driving while ability impaired by drugs
• Numerous vehicle and traffic law violations