Victim Identified in Fatal Crash Involving Pedestrians

NEW HARTFORD, CT — A car traveling westbound on Main Street left the roadway and struck a couple walking on the sidewalk, resulting in the death of a man and serious injuries to his wife, state police said.

According to a police report, around 9:13 a.m., a 2002 Honda Civic LX operated by Shivan Desai, 31, of New Hartford, ran onto the sidewalk, striking pedestrians William and Sibyl Pellum of Pine Meadow.

Both Pellums were treated at the scene, then rushed to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital. Shortly after arrival, William Pellum, 69, succumbed to his injuries, police said.

Sibyl Pellum, 67, was transferred to Hartford Hospital, where she continues to receive treatment for serious injuries, police said.

Desai was transported to Winsted Hospital with minor injuries, the report said.

Route 44 was closed in both directions for several hours following the crash, which remains under investigation.

Written by Tim Jensen

Photo credit: Chris Dehnel