Postal Worker Killed By New Jersey Flood Waters

The Jersey Journal reports, "Police said that at least two co-workers tried to save USPS supervisor Ronald Dawkins, 47, of Orange, who abandoned his car when it became trapped in floodwaters generated by Hurricane Irene."  Dawkins abandoned his vehicle when it became partly submerged, then tried to wade through rising water to a postal facility around 8:30 a.m. Sunday.

Reporter Michaelangelo Conte writes on the NJ.com website, "Co-workers said they saw Dawkins leave his stranded vehicle and wade through the flood toward the entrance to the postal facility but he stepped into the area of the drainage canal that was concealed by the flood water... adding that he disappeared into about 10 to 12 feet of water. "

The Associated Press says Hurricane Irene has led to the deaths of at least 40 people in 11 states. The total is derived from state and local law enforcement agencies, emergency officials and family members.

Shown above, The U.S. Postal facility and drainage canal in Kearny, N.J. where Ronald Dawkins was killed.