Connecticut Police Respond to 475 Crashes, 2 Fatal, Over Thanksgiving

BREAKING: Connecticut State Police have responded to an alarming 475 motor vehicle crashes over the Thanksgiving weekend, including two fatal incidents. The reports are emerging from the period starting at midnight on November 26 and concluding at 11:59 p.m. on November 29.

Authorities confirmed that the total number of calls for service reached 5,298, a decrease from last year’s 5,825 calls, which included 501 crashes. Despite the overall drop, the fatalities underscore the dangers on Connecticut roads during this busy travel period.

The first fatal incident occurred on Thursday, November 26, around 11:30 a.m. on Interstate 95 North in Groton. Troopers discovered a BMW X3 overturned on the right shoulder of the Exit 89 ramp after the vehicle collided with multiple road signs and a light pole. The driver, identified as 35-year-old Derek Curtis from Pawcatuck, was ejected during the crash and sustained fatal injuries.

In a separate incident on Saturday, November 28, just before 7 a.m., police responded to a serious one-vehicle crash on Interstate 395 South near Exit 6 in Montville. A Subaru Legacy struck a metal beam guard rail and then collided with a concrete barrier. The driver, Edward Mascola, age 50, from Higganum, was transported to William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich, where he was pronounced dead.

In addition to the crashes, police conducted 1,275 traffic stops and provided 413 traffic-related services, which included debris removal and assistance with disabled vehicles. Among those stops, officers issued 30 DUI charges, highlighting ongoing concerns about impaired driving during holiday festivities.

Authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic laws, especially during high-traffic periods. With the holiday season still underway, police are stepping up enforcement to ensure safer roads for everyone.

As the investigation into these incidents continues, police will be monitoring road safety closely. Residents are encouraged to report any unsafe driving behaviors as the holiday travel season progresses.