BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — New York State police are investigating after a New York State Thruway Authority worker was killed and another was injured on I-90 on Thursday.
Police said troopers responded to I-90 in the Town of Chili just before 12:30 p.m. on Thursday and preliminary investigation revealed a tractor-trailer was traveling east when it struck the two workers in a work zone.
62-year-old Vincent J. Giammarva, of Leroy, was pronounced dead at the scene. The other worker, 58-year-old Mark Vara of Scottsville, was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital and remains in critical condition. No charges have been filed against the driver of the tractor-trailer at this stage. The investigation is ongoing.
The thruway authority shared the following statement and photos on social media on Froday.
"Today, the Thruway family operates with heavy hearts as we remember our brother Vincent “Vinny” Giammarva (Construction Equipment Operator Heavy), who was hit and killed Thursday in a work zone crash. Vinny was a dedicated public servant who worked in the Thruway's Henrietta Maintenance Section for nearly 20 years.
Vinny’s unwavering dedication embodied the very essence of this organization, which is now left with an unimaginable void and a long grieving process ahead.
Vinny, and another colleague of ours, Mark Vara (Thruway Maintenance Worker), who has been with the Thruway for nearly three years, were in the process of picking up a work zone when they were hit by a tractor trailer on I-90 near Henrietta. Mark sustained serious injuries and remains in the hospital.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Vinny's family and friends during this tremendously difficult time, and we also stand with and support Mark’s family during his recovery.
(Vinny pictured riding on a motorcycle. Mark pictured in orange construction gear)"
New York Governor Kathy Hochul released a statement on Thursday which said in part:
"We are heartbroken over this senseless death, praying for the recovery of the injured worker and grateful to first responders who sprang into action to support their fellow public servants. This incident is a tragic reminder: responsible driving is a life-saving skill, and all New Yorkers should remain alert, slow down and move over when approaching a work zone or stopped vehicle.”
NYS Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare, Esq released the following statement on Thursday:
"Earlier today, one of our dedicated Thruway Authority colleagues lost his life when he was struck by a tractor trailer while setting up a work zone on I-90 near Henrietta. Another colleague was also hit and sustained serious injuries.
Our Maintenance employees embody the heart and soul of this organization. Roadside workers risk their lives every day to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road.
New York State Police are investigating the crash.
The entire Thruway family is in mourning and our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of everyone involved."
On Monday. Gov. Hochul announced flags on state buildings will be flown at half-staff starting at sunrise through interment in honor Giammarva.
