Meriden Crossing Guard’s Death Leaves Community ‘Devastated’

MERIDEN, CT — The city of Meriden and beyond are mourning the death of a crossing guard who was fatally struck by a vehicle Wednesday morning.

Police responded around 8:55 a.m. to 391 Broad St., at its intersection with Olive Street, on the report of a pedestrian struck by a car.

The pedestrian was identified as a Meriden crossing guard. Emergency crews arrived and began life-saving measures on the victim, according to police.

Police said the victim was taken to the hospital but died as a result of his injuries.

"The Meriden Police Department is devastated by this loss of one of Crossing Guards," police wrote in a news release. "Our thoughts and prayers go to the victim's family, friends, and colleagues here within our agency and within the Crossing Guard Unit."

Meriden Public Schools also released a statement saying, "This is an awful tragedy," while offering condolences to the victim's family.

“Our students and families will miss his friendly smile and positive approach, which was an important and welcome part of keeping them safe every day," school officials said.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Meriden police at 203-630-6201.

Meriden Mayor Kevin M. Scarpati said he was "shocked" to learn of the accident that "claimed the life of one of our valued school crossing guards, who helped children gain safe passage to and from Israel Putnam Elementary School each day."

"As this remains an active investigation, I ask the entire Meriden community to extend their thoughts and prayers to the victim's family," Scarpati added.