PITTSTOWN, N.Y. (NEWS10) — State Police reported that a New York State Department of Transportation worker hit by a car in Pittstown on May 29 died from his injuries at Albany Medical Center on Friday. The victim was identified as 54-year-old Robert Bornt of Hoosick Falls.
The crash took place on Route 7 near Campbell Lane just before 2:30 p.m. on Thursday. Bornt was transported to the hospital via medical evacuation helicopter after reportedly being struck in a work zone in the vicinity.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic loss of NYSDOT Highway Maintenance Supervisor Robert Bornt, who passed away this morning after suffering from catastrophic injuries related to a work zone crash in a flagging operation in Pittstown yesterday afternoon,” the Department of Transportation stated on Friday. “Robert was a proud and dedicated member of the NYSDOT family. Like so many of our highway workers, he was out there doing critical work to keep New York’s roads safe. His loss is deeply felt across our entire department. We ask that you keep Robert and his loved ones in your thoughts.”
NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez also released a statement about his death.
“Robert Bornt was a hardworking, dedicated and beloved 22-year veteran of the New York State Department of Transportation family, who tragically passed away this morning from injuries he suffered as a result of a work zone intrusion while conducting roadway maintenance in Pittstown, NY. Collectively, we mourn his loss and will forever keep Robert and his family in our prayers. Our focus right now is with Robert’s family and the wellbeing of NYSDOT crews and personnel across New York State. The safety and well being of our employees is my primary focus as Commissioner. The fight for their safety is my most important fight, and I will continue to raise awareness every day on the importance of drivers to slow down, pay attention and move over in highway work zones.”
NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez
Bornt also served as the chief of the Hoosick Falls Fire Department. The Stephentown Volunteer Fire Department issued a statement on his passing, saying ” All of us at the SVFD are saddened by the sudden passing of Chief Robert Bornt of the Hoosick Falls Fire Department. Our condolences go out to his family and the entire membership of the Hoosick Falls Fire Department, as well as his NYSDOT family. Robert and his department are a part of our battalion up the valley from us and we will truly miss him. Rest easy chief, and thank you for your dedication in helping to protect the residents of Hoosick Falls and Rensselaer County.”
State Police said on Friday that no arrests have been made in connection to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
