$26K+ Raised For Parsippany Sanitation Worker Injured On The Job

PARSIPPANY, NJ — Months after a Parsippany sanitation worker suffered a life-altering injury while on the job, the community has rallied alongside him at a recent fundraiser.

On Sept. 12, more than 300 people attended the Parsippany Strong: Pasta & Prizes for a Blue Collar Brother event at the Parsippany Police Athletics League headquarters.

The event benefited Anthony Shandra and his family after he underwent life-saving surgery following a tragic incident while on his sanitation route.

The fundraiser, which raised more than $26,000 for Shandra, featured a spaghetti dinner as well as a tricky tray full of prizes for participants.

In addition to the fellow sanitation workers, Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department members (Shandra is a long-time member,) friends, and family, local officials came to lend their support.

"Great seeing Anthony Shandra tonight! He’s looking his best and, even better, was in such happy spirits," said Mayor Pulkit Desai. "Always wonderful to see that smile and positive energy. Wishing him continued success in his recovery. His positive energy is unmatched."

The funds raised during the event, plus monies from a GoFundMe, bring the total financial support for Shandra to over $110,000.

Background

On April 28, around 7 a.m, police were called to the area of Vail Road and Arnold Drive on reports of an accident involving a garbage truck.

Authorities found that a sanitation worker, later identified as 48-year-old Shandra, was loading trash into the rear of the truck when a Nissan Altima struck him, according to police.

The Nissan, driven by a 29-year-old man, caused Shandra to be pinned between the vehicles, crushing him, police said.

First responders rendered life-saving care to Shandra, and he was rushed to Morristown Medical Center to undergo emergency surgery for "severe injuries to his lower extremities."

As of Tuesday morning, a GoFundMe fundraiser has raised more than $84,000 from over 1,000 donations to help Shandra and his family cover medical expenses, missed wages, and more.

Authorities have not announced any criminal charges in the incident at this time, but said the Nissan driver was cooperating with the investigation.