New York Tow Operator Dies from Injuries Suffered in Struck-By Crash
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Tow operator Irael Martinez, 48, died Friday morning as a result of injuries he received on Feb. 24 when he was struck by an on-coming vehicle on the Onondaga Lake Parkway in Syracuse, N.Y.
Martinez was loading a disabled vehicle when an SUV driven by Richard Congel, 76, failed to move over and struck him.
Martinez was taken to Upstate University Hospital in critical condition.
Congel was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of drugs, vehicular assault and second-degree assault. He was arraigned and released pending pre-trial supervision. Police say additional charges will be brought as Martinez has died.
A tow truck vigil was held Friday night on Onondaga Lake Parkway to honor Martinez.
A GoFundMe campaign has been started by Syracuse-area tow companies for Martinez’ family.