Beloved NYSDOT Supervisor Robert Bornt Killed in Tragic Route 7 Work Zone Crash in Pittstown — State Mourns Loss of Devoted Highway Hero

PITTSTOWN, N.Y. — A somber wave has swept across the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and the broader Rensselaer County community as officials confirm the tragic death of Robert Bornt, a veteran Highway Maintenance Supervisor who was fatally struck during a flagging operation on Route 7 early Friday morning.

The fatal incident occurred in the eastbound lane of Route 7 near Pittstown, where Bornt, a seasoned and well-respected NYSDOT employee, was performing traffic control duties as part of a scheduled roadwork project. Authorities say the crash unfolded just after 6:00 a.m., when an oncoming vehicle entered the active work zone and struck Bornt while he was executing his flagging responsibilities. Despite rapid emergency response efforts, Bornt succumbed to catastrophic injuries sustained in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver involved remained at the site and is cooperating fully with law enforcement, according to the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the investigation with support from NYSDOT and New York State Police. As of Friday evening, no charges had been filed, but authorities noted the investigation remains ongoing as they work to determine the full circumstances of the crash.

Robert Bornt, 60, was known among colleagues as a dedicated public servant with over two decades of experience maintaining and improving New York’s highways. Having spent much of his career in the Capital Region, Bornt was revered not only for his technical knowledge and leadership, but also for his kindness, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to safety.

In an emotional statement, NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to Bornt’s family, friends, and colleagues.

“Today, we lost a beloved member of the NYSDOT family. Robert Bornt was the very embodiment of public service. He dedicated his life to making our roads safer for the traveling public, and his death is a tragic reminder of the dangers our highway crews face every day,” Dominguez said. “We urge drivers across New York to remain vigilant, slow down, and obey work zone signage. Lives depend on it.”

Governor Kathy Hochul also addressed the tragedy in a press release issued Friday afternoon, ordering flags on all state buildings to be flown at half-staff in Bornt’s honor.

“My heart breaks for Robert Bornt’s family and the entire NYSDOT community,” Governor Hochul said. “He served this state with honor, and his life was taken while protecting others. We owe it to him and every highway worker to make safety our highest priority. Work zones are not just construction sites — they are workplaces, and they deserve our respect.”

Colleagues gathered outside the NYSDOT Rensselaer County maintenance facility Friday evening, leaving flowers, safety vests, and handwritten notes at a makeshift memorial to honor Bornt’s memory. Many described him as a “go-to guy,” known for his steady demeanor, infectious laugh, and tireless work ethic.

Jeffrey Simmons, a fellow highway maintenance worker who had worked alongside Bornt for 15 years, fought back tears as he reflected on the loss.

“Rob was more than a supervisor — he was our friend and our leader. He knew this job inside and out and never hesitated to step in and get his hands dirty. He always reminded us to stay safe. It’s just heartbreaking.”

The NYSDOT has activated its Critical Incident Stress Management team to provide counseling and mental health services to employees affected by the tragedy. Grief support services are also being extended to Bornt’s family.

Friday’s crash is the latest in a string of work zone-related incidents across the state that have raised urgent concerns about the safety of transportation workers. According to the NYSDOT, dozens of highway crew members have been injured in recent years due to motorists failing to slow down or pay attention in work zones.

In light of this, the agency is renewing its call for stricter enforcement of New York’s Move Over Law, which requires drivers to reduce speed and shift lanes when approaching emergency or maintenance vehicles. Advocates are also pressing for the expansion of automated work zone speed enforcement, following a successful pilot program.

As the investigation continues, the community of Pittstown is left grappling with the devastating loss of a man whose daily efforts helped protect and serve thousands of travelers.

Robert Bornt is survived by his wife, two children, and three grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days, and NYSDOT officials say a formal ceremony to honor his service is being planned.

A Legacy of Dedication

Bornt’s death marks a somber chapter in the long history of public service carried out by NYSDOT employees across the state. His legacy, colleagues say, will live on in the miles of roads he helped build and maintain — and in the hearts of the people who had the privilege of working alongside him.

“We’ll keep going — because that’s what Rob would want,” Simmons said. “But we’ll never forget the sacrifice he made.”

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office at (518) 266-1900.