A preliminary investigation determined the tractor trailer driver rear-ended a passenger vehicle which then caused a chain reaction involving two other cars.

One passenger was airlifted to Albany Medical Canter for evaluation, three other people were taken to local hospitals with minor injuries.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

All lanes of the thruway between exits 19 (Kingston) and 20 (Saugerties) were closed to allow the helicopter to land. All lanes are now reopened.