Communities Mourn Hamden Police Officer Killed In North Branford Crash

HAMDEN, CT — Hamden police officer Michael Pantera was killed in a motor vehicle accident in North Branford Tuesday, police said.

The community police officer who lived in North Branford died two days after retiring from the department following a 24-year career.

Pantera was described as a "compassionate police officer that cared deeply about the Hamden community," in a news release from the Hamden Police Department announcing his passing. "He served the town of Hamden and his hometown with honor and distinction throughout his career."

Acting Chief of Police Timothy Wydra said Pantera was "compassionate and caring," and "very proud to serve in the town where he was raised and still had family living here."

"He was always ready to lend a hand or volunteer to help an officer or community member. We mourn his loss and remember him as a genuine, loyal, hardworking, and kind-hearted person who touched everyone he met," Wydra said. "We were all shocked and saddened to hear about his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

North Branford police and firefighters responded to the single-car crash at around 7 p.m. In a news release, police said "first responders performed extraordinary life-saving measures but with the deepest sympathy Mr. Pantera did not survive this incident."

"Our heartfelt sorrow and sympathy goes to Michael Pantera’s family, friends, relatives, and Hamden Police Department," police wrote.

Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett has ordered all town flags to be flown at half staff to honor Pantera.

“I extend my deepest condolences to the Hamden Police Department and to the family and loved ones of Officer Pantera," Garrett said. "As a member of the Community Police Division and Bicycle Patrol Unit, Officer Pantera represented the best of our police department with many close and friendly interactions with our residents."

The South Central Accident Reconstruction unit responded to the scene and will be continuing this investigation, North Branford police said. Anyone who may have information or who witnessed the accident are urged to contact the North Branford Police Department at 203-484-2703.