Connecticut
Connecticut rehab center murder-suicide: Husband killed wife, then himself
A man fatally shot his wife at a Connecticut rehabilitation facility before turning the gun on himself in an apparent murder-suicide.
Barbara Brandt, 81, was shot in her room by her husband, Dennis Brandt, 82, according to the Cromwell Police Department.
“It is with great sadness to inform you that the husband of one of our residents at Apple Rehab Cromwell took the life of his wife and then his own this morning,” Michael Landi, Apple Rehab’s vice president of operations, said in a statement to Newsweek.
She had no roommate and no witnesses were present. Landi said staff immediately called 911, and no other residents or staff were injured or involved in the incident.
Barbara Brand lived in the facility as a resident for three years.
Landi said there were no known previous threats, and the motive remains unclear at this time.
“Our focus will remain on our staff and residents and we will be providing any and all resources and counseling services that they may need to get through this tragic event, many of which are already onsite,” Landi said.
Newsweek reached out to the Cromwell Police Department about the fatal shooting, which stated they had no further information.
KinderCare, located next to Apple Rehab, was on lockdown earlier this morning. However, they told Newsweek that the lockdown has been lifted, and police have left the area. They declined to comment further on the shooting.
Apple Rehab Cromwell
Apple Rehab Cromwell is a nursing facility located in Cromwell, Connecticut, offering a range of services, including short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, and specialized therapy programs.
The facility is Medicare and Medicaid certified, with 85 licensed beds and an average occupancy rate of 73.41 percent. It provides progressive nursing and rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, catering to patients recovering from various conditions such as surgeries, cardiac events, or strokes.
The facility emphasizes patient-centered care, creating customized care plans for each resident, and offers amenities such as private rooms with flat-screen TVs, wireless internet, and fine dining. The rehabilitation gym is equipped with the latest therapeutic equipment.
In addition to medical care, the center provides comprehensive discharge planning, family education, and support groups.
According to the Violence Policy Center, nearly 1,200 Americans die in murder-suicides each year. A gun is involved in nine out of 10 murder-suicides. In nearly two-thirds of all murder-suicides, the shooter’s intimate partner is among the victims.
Cromwell, Connecticut
Cromwell, Connecticut, a suburban town in Middlesex County, is known for its blend of history and modern community life.
Covering approximately 15 square miles, Cromwell is located along the Connecticut River and near major highways. As of the 2020 census, the town has a population of about 13,000, offering a family-friendly environment with a mix of suburban and rural.
Cromwell maintains a low crime rate, contributing to its reputation as a safe community. The town typically reports fewer than five violent crimes annually, including incidents such as homicide, assault, and robbery.
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Connecticut
Madison Receives $800,000 State Of Connecticut Connectivity Grant
MADISON, CT — Madison is receiving $800,000 from the State of Connecticut Connectivity Grant program for infrastructure improvements along Scotland Avenue, officials announced.
During a ceremony this week, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Deputy Commissioner of Department of Transportation Karen Kitsis, state Sen. Christine Cohen, and state Rep. John Michael Parker joined Madison First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons in announcing the grant.
In 2023, the state enacted legislation recommended by the Vision Zero Council aimed at improving traffic and driving safety to reduce injuries and fatalities on the state’s roadways. Unfortunately, 2024 has been a devastating year for roadway fatalities in Connecticut, according to officials.
The Madison project “will create over half a mile of new sidewalks, curb ramps, crosswalks, traffic signage, guide rails, drainage improvements, and pavement” on Scotland Avenue.
It will connect the existing sidewalks at both ends of the road, enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility for the surrounding neighborhoods. Additionally, it will provide easier access to downtown, public transportation, and a town athletic park.
From the announcement:
First Selectwoman Lyons thanked Gov Ned Lamont, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, and the Department of Transportation for all the support given to the Town of Madison. The partnership with Senator Christine Cohen and Representative John-Michael Parker made it possible to apply for the grant. Town staff, including the Public Works Director, and Town Engineer, worked with our volunteer Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee on this project. “We are grateful for state funding and excited to see this project move forward” she stated.
The map illustrates the state funding that the town has received in recent years to support its network of sidewalks. The Scotland Road project completes a loop connecting downtown to Route 79 and Bradley Road. This project enhances safety for pedestrians traveling downtown, the library, the athletic field, and the beach neighborhood.
State Senator Cohen stated that this initiative is a strong example of collaboration across all levels of government. The leadership of First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons has been integral in ensuring the creation of a safe and connected community. We understand that safe, connected communities allow residents to thrive. This project aims to link the downtown area with local homes, the train station, and bus routes, as well as to facilitate connections among community members.
Connecticut
Crews battle brush fire in East Windsor
Connecticut
American Freight to close 2 stores in Connecticut
An appliance and furniture store announced that they’ll be closing their two locations in Connecticut.
American Freight is closing all 328 of its locations nationwide, including in Newington and Derby.
Because of this, they’re offering sales in person and online.
Shoppers can expect discounts of up to 30% off the lowest ticketed prices. Available items include living room sets, bedroom furniture, dining tables and a selection of appliances.
The store’s Newington location is at 65 Holmes Rd. and the Derby location is at 656 New Haven Ave.
They also have several locations in neighboring states including Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York.
In a statement, the company says it has struggled due to inflation and macroeconomic challenges.
There will be financing and delivery services available to customers, and all sales are final. You can visit their website here.
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