Stonington Police Sergeant Working Road Job Detail Hit By Vehicle: PD

STONINGTON, CT — Working a road job detail on his regular day off, a Stonington police sergeant outside a patrol car was struck on Route 184 late Monday morning, Stonington Police Deputy Chief Todd Olson confirmed for Patch.

Sgt. Mario Ritacco was transported via Lifestar to Rhode Island Hospital, a Level 1 Trauma Center, in Providence. As of Monday night, he is in stable condition, according to Olson.

Police said a car heading east on Route 184 hit the cruiser, which then hit the officer. Olson confirmed that the car that hit the cruiser was a red Toyota convertible with a Connecticut registration.

The incident was reported to police via a 911 call around 11:15 a.m. on Route 184 near Taugwonk Road. The roadway reopened around 3:30 p.m. after being closed for several hours.

The driver of the vehicle that struck the officer was transported to L+M Hospital in New London with serious injures, Olson said.

In a post to Instagram, the town of Stonington said, "Please join us in sending your thoughts and prayers to Sgt. Ritacco and his loved ones."

"And, whenever possible, please find your own way to thank our Police Department for all they do, each and every day for our community, the post reads.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.