James Montanino, 72, was on duty at 372 Church St. in Poughkeepsie at around 7:30 a.m. on Monday when he was struck by a vehicle while assisting children on their way to the Smith Elementary School, the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department said on Monday afternoon.
Montanino was taken to MidHudson Regional Hospital, where he later died of his injuries.
The driver, a 38-year-old Poughkeepsie resident, stayed at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Police said there is no indication that alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash, which at this time appears to have been a "tragic accident."
"The City of Poughkeepsie Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Montanino, who faithfully served our community as a crossing guard," police said in a statement on Monday.
According to Poughkeepsie city officials, Montanio had been a city resident for more than four decades and had served as a crossing guard since 2024.
"The entire City mourns the devastating loss of our dear friend James, who was not only a dedicated colleague but also more significantly a cornerstone to our community," Poughkeepsie Mayor Yvonne Flowers said in a statement on Monday.
Flowers continued, "Over the course of his tenure with the City, James served as a role model to his colleagues and superiors alike. He rose to every occasion and made the ultimate sacrifice earlier this morning, watching over our children on their way to school...I extend my sincerest condolences to James’ wife Rose, and his family and friends as they grieve his tragic passing.”
Flowers said the city would work with the Poughkeepsie City School District to make sure "all available resources are provided to those in need during this difficult time."
Several road closures and detours were set up in the area of the crash as officers investigated on Monday morning. They have since reopened.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 845-451-4000 or leave an anonymous tip at 845-451-7577.
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