COLONIE, N.Y. – An early-morning tractor-trailer crash involving dozens of cattle shut down part of a major highway interchange Wednesday, leaving four cows dead and the driver with minor injuries.
The crash happened around 4:20 a.m. on the offramp from Alternate State Route 7 westbound to State Route 9, according to New York State Police.
Troopers said the tractor-trailer overturned while carrying 41 cows en route from Cambridge to a holding facility in Stamford.
Key Points
- Tractor-trailer carrying 41 cows overturned on a Colonie offramp early Wednesday.
- Four cows died and the driver sustained minor injuries.
- Cleanup and animal transfer operations lasted about seven hours.
Emergency crews and animal teams respond
The incident drew a large emergency response that included the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, the County Animal Response Team, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, and multiple fire departments from Latham and Maplewood. A veterinarian examined the surviving cows at the scene before they were transferred to several waiting trailers.
Hours-long recovery effort
Officials said the complex extrication and relocation operation lasted approximately seven hours. During that time, the left lane of the ramp remained closed while crews stabilized the overturned trailer and moved the animals safely. The roadway has since reopened.
Investigation continues
State Police said the investigation into what caused the truck to overturn is ongoing. The driver, whose name has not been released, was treated for minor injuries at the scene. Authorities confirmed the cows were being transported legally at the time of the crash.