Bethany, CT – A Connecticut State Police cruiser was struck late Friday night while a trooper was seated inside during a response to a separate crash on Interstate 91 northbound, prompting renewed warnings for drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles.
According to Connecticut State Police, the incident happened Friday, December 19, 2025, at approximately 9:24 p.m. near Exit 15 on I-91 northbound. Troopers were responding to a reported motor vehicle accident when Trooper Berritto parked his marked cruiser in the left lane with emergency lights activated to secure the scene.
Police said a Chevrolet Colorado traveling northbound struck the stationary State Police cruiser despite the visible emergency lighting. The impact caused significant damage to the rear of the cruiser, as shown in images released by Connecticut State Police – Troop I in Bethany.
Trooper Berritto was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital for evaluation following the crash. Authorities confirmed he did not sustain serious injuries. The operator of the Chevrolet Colorado was not injured.
State police said the driver was administered standardized field sobriety tests, which he allegedly failed. The operator was subsequently arrested and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Drugs, Failure to Follow Too Closely resulting in a motor vehicle accident, Failure to Move Over/Reduce Speed when approaching an emergency vehicle, and Distracted Driving.
The crash temporarily impacted traffic along I-91 northbound as emergency crews responded and investigators documented the scene. No additional injuries were reported.
Connecticut State Police are reminding drivers that state law requires motorists to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles with lights or sirens activated. Violations can result in serious injuries, fatalities, and criminal charges.
Drivers who regularly travel I-91 through Hartford County are urged to remain alert, especially at night, and allow extra space when emergency responders are present on the roadway.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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