Injured Naugatuck Police Lt. Mark Pettinicchi Takes First Steps

NAUGATUCK, CT — Naugatuck Police Lt. Mark Pettinicchi took his first steps this week as he continues to battle back from the serious leg injuries he suffered this past November.

In an exclusive report on NBC Connecticut, Pettinicchi discussed his rehabilitation from the hit-and-run crash that broke multiple bones in his legs.

"Just to get normalcy back is what I'm looking for," Pettinicchi told NBC Connecticut. "Just to be able to go and walk myself to the mailbox."

The 19-year veteran suffered a shattered left ankle, broken right ankle and broken right tibia when a vehicle driven by shoplifting suspects slammed into him while he was directing traffic.

Naugatuck police caught the suspects with Pettinicchi's help; while on the ground after the crash, he was still able to radio ahead to other officers.

Since the crash, Pettinicchi has undergone five surgeries and extensive rehabilitation work. His wife, Michele, has been his biggest supporter.

"It's just a little step for me, but it feels like I just climbed Mt. Everest," he said. How long his rehab will take is not known.

A GoFundMe campaign in Pettinicchi's honor has raised more than $30,000 to assist with his recovery, handily blowing past the original goal of $10,000.

"We're very proud of Lt. Pettinicchi's perseverance and strong will to heal," the department wrote on Facebook (see below).

Note: GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.