Owner of Southington's Family Pizza Killed in a Car Crash

SOUTHINGTON, CT — The owner of a popular pizza place in town was killed early Monday in a car crash.

The restaurant announced the death of Mike Vassiliou, 60, of Bristol, on its Web site. He was 60.

The posting said, "With an extra heavy heart we announce the passing of our owner Mike. A dedicated man to the town of Southington and the surrounding communities. Mike always worked hard to give you his best. What else can we ask from someone in their lifetime. Here's a photo taken a couple weeks back at the restaurant. RIP Mike."

State Police said Vassiliou was driving the wrong way at the time of the accident.

Vassiliou was traveling northbound in the southbound lane on Mohegan Sun Boulevard and struck a bus in a head on collision, according to police reports. Authorities were called to the scene at approximately 3:45 a.m. Monday.

Police said Vassiliou was pronounced dead at the scene. The bus was operated by Lloyd Gentles, 64, of New London, who reports said was unable to avoid Vassiliou's 2002 RAV4.

Police are still investigating the situation and urge anyone with information about the collision to contact them immediately.

Photo Credit: Family Pizza.

Patch Editor RJ Scofield contributed to this story.