Southington Was Home In Fallen Police Officer's Heart

SOUTHINGTON, CT — The tragic death of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier after being hit by a vehicle in Southington on May 30 stunned the state law enforcement community.

But no town is reeling from the sad events on Interstate 84 in Southington the way the Town of Southington is.

Pelletier, after all, was a native and resident of Southington, where he was raising a family with his wife.

Monday, the Town of Southington is asking residents to observe a moment of silence in honor of Pelletier at 2:36 p.m., which was about the time he lost his life in the line of duty.

Southington Town Council Chairman Paul Chaplinsky Jr. said it will be a "tribute of respect and solidarity."

Friday, Chaplinsky wrote an open letter to the Southington community urging folks locally to support Pelletier's grieving family and he paid tribute to one of Southington's own.

"His commitment to serving and protecting those in our state was unwavering, and his bravery and dedication will never be forgotten," wrote Chaplinsky.

"He exemplified the highest standards of service and sacrifice, and his loss is a profound tragedy for his family, friends, colleagues, and all of us who call Southington home," continued Chaplinsky.

"Let us all wrap our collective and supportive arms around the Pelletier family, as they try and make sense and cope with this tragic event."

Pelletier, a nine-year veteran of the state police, was struck and killed by a red pickup on I-84 Thursday while he was tending to a traffic stop.

State police have charged a 44-year-old Hartford man with vehicular homicide and driving drunk in connection with the tragedy.

From May 31: 'Suspect Charged In Death Of Trooper In Southington: CSP'

From May 30: 'Fallen Trooper 'A Dedicated And Compassionate Professional:' UPDATE