Bergen County, NJ (October 21, 2024) – A tragic truck accident occurred on Monday, October 21, claiming the life of a 23-year-old sanitation worker from North Arlington. The incident, reported by the Tenafly Police Department, took place just before 7:00 a.m. along the northbound curb of County Road.
According to police, the garbage truck was parked while the sanitation worker was transferring garbage into it when a northbound tractor-trailer collided with the truck. The impact resulted in severe injuries to the worker, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the tractor-trailer, a 53-year-old male from Saylorsburg, PA, remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. He was transported to Englewood Health Medical Center with minor injuries. Additionally, the driver of the garbage truck, a 54-year-old male from North Arlington, and another sanitation employee, a 69-year-old male from Union City, were also taken to the medical center for evaluation.
Emergency responders, including firefighters, worked diligently at the scene to manage the situation and assist with vehicle extraction. County Rd was closed in both directions for several hours while officers from the Tenafly Police Department Traffic Bureau conducted their investigation. Although no summonses were issued at the scene, the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the young sanitation worker who lost his life in this tragic accident. This loss is a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who serve our communities, and we stand in solidarity with all those affected.
Fatal Truck Accidents in Bergen County
Truck accidents pose significant risks on the roadways of Bergen County, contributing to a concerning trend in traffic fatalities. According to recent data from the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, over 1,200 truck-related accidents occurred in the state in 2022, resulting in nearly 100 fatalities. Bergen County has witnessed a steady rise in such incidents, with many occurring on major highways and local roads. The sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles amplify the potential for devastating injuries in collisions, emphasizing the urgent need for improved safety measures.
