A tragic accident occurred in Tenafly, New Jersey, on Monday morning, resulting in the death of a 23-year-old sanitation worker. The incident involved a collision between a tractor trailer and a garbage truck, prompting an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Key Takeaways
- A 23-year-old sanitation worker was killed in a crash involving a garbage truck and a tractor trailer.
- The accident occurred on County Road at approximately 6:55 a.m.
- OSHA has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatality.
Incident Overview
At around 6:55 a.m. on Monday, the Tenafly Police Department received reports of a serious motor vehicle accident on County Road, just north of the intersection with Prospect Terrace. Upon arrival, officers discovered a crash scene involving a private sanitation truck and a tractor trailer in the northbound lane.
The sanitation truck, operated by Regional Industries LLC, was parked along the curb while a worker was collecting trash from nearby residences. Witness accounts and evidence suggest that the tractor trailer, traveling northbound, crashed into the back of the garbage truck as the sanitation worker was in the process of transferring garbage.
Victims and Injuries
The worker, identified as a 23-year-old man from North Arlington, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the garbage truck, a 54-year-old man also from North Arlington, along with another employee, a 69-year-old man from Union City, were transported to Englewood Health Medical Center for evaluation.
The driver of the tractor trailer, a 53-year-old man from Pennsylvania, remained at the scene and was later taken to the hospital for evaluation as well.
Investigation Details
The Tenafly Police Department closed County Road for several hours to conduct a thorough investigation. While no summonses were issued at the scene, the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
OSHA has initiated its own investigation in response to the fatality. The agency has a six-month timeframe to conduct its probe and release findings regarding the incident.
Community Response
The tragic event has raised concerns within the community about road safety, particularly regarding sanitation workers who are often vulnerable while performing their duties. Local officials are urging drivers to exercise caution and awareness, especially in areas where workers are present.
As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits answers regarding the circumstances that led to this devastating accident. The loss of a young life has left a profound impact on the families involved and the broader Tenafly community, highlighting the importance of safety measures for all road users.
Sources
- Tenafly NJ investigation underway in fatal truck crash, Bergen Record.
