'This is a tragedy.' New details released in work zone crash that killed Thruway worker

A New York State Thruway Authority worker was killed and a second was injured Thursday afternoon when a tractor-trailer struck them as they were working on the highway, according to New York State Police.

Trooper Lynnea Crane said that an eastbound tractor-trailer driven by a 64-year-old man from Oswego County struck two Thruway Authority workers in a work zone just before 12:30 p.m. Thursday. The one-vehicle crash occurred at mile marker 368 in Chili, between exit 47 (Le Roy) and Exit 46 (Henrietta), according to State Police.

A 62-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene and a 58-year-old man was taken to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he was listed in critical condition, Crane said. Their names were not released, but she said both men lived in the Rochester region.

UPDATE: Police identify victims of Thruway work zone crash in Chili

"This is a tragedy," Crane said. "Someone's life was lost today and he was doing his job."

Drugs and alcohol did not appear to be a factor in the crash, though troopers are investigating to determine what happened. No charges have been filed in connection with the crash.

"We can't ask people enough," Crane said. "Pay attention. Put your phones down. Look at your surroundings. This is obviously a tragedy and it could have been prevented if we're all just paying attention and slowing down."

The eastbound lanes of the highway were closed for several hours on Thursday afternoon.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Thursday said that the fatal crash occurred while the Thruway Authority workers were setting up a work zone on Interstate 90 in Chili.

"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," she said. "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.”

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: 'This is a tragedy.' New details released in work zone crash that killed Thruway worker