Aaron Pelletier State Trooper Obituary : Aaron Pelletier Southington CT Death : State trooper killed in crash on I-84 in Southington; suspect in custody

On Thursday, tragedy struck on Interstate 84 in Southington as a state trooper lost his life in a devastating crash. The fallen officer, identified as Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier #536, was a dedicated member of Troop H in Hartford, boasting nine years of service within the esteemed ranks of the Connecticut State Police.

The incident unfolded as Trooper Pelletier was engaged in a routine traffic stop on the eastbound lanes of I-84 near Exit 31. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, he was struck by a passing vehicle while outside of his cruiser, the offending driver callously fleeing the scene, leaving behind a scene of chaos and loss.

Tragically, Pelletier was pronounced deceased at the scene, his life cut short in the line of duty. However, the pursuit of justice did not waver. Authorities swiftly apprehended the suspect driver, ensuring they faced the consequences of their actions.

The Connecticut State Police solemnly reflected on Pelletier's service, highlighting his tenure as a member of the 125th Training Troop and emphasizing his unwavering dedication, pride, and professionalism in serving the citizens of Connecticut. His sacrifice, they declared, would forever remain etched in the collective memory of the state's law enforcement community.

As the investigation unfolded, the repercussions of the crash reverberated throughout the region. The Department of Transportation announced the closure of both sides of I-84 near Exit 31, the extent of the closure shrouded in uncertainty as the investigation progressed. Governor Ned Lamont, recognizing the gravity of the loss, ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in tribute to Trooper Pelletier's sacrifice, a poignant gesture honoring his service and ultimate sacrifice.

The impact of the crash extended beyond the realm of law enforcement, disrupting the daily routines of Southington residents. The local school district issued a warning of potential delays to bus services, underscoring the ripple effect of such a tragic event on the community at large.

In the wake of this devastating loss, with investigations ongoing and emotions running high, the memory of Trooper Aaron Pelletier remains a beacon of courage and commitment, his legacy forever enshrined in the annals of Connecticut's law enforcement history.