Trooper killed in hit-and-run crash was conducting traffic stop, state police say

SOUTHINGTON, Conn. (WFSB/Gray News) – A Connecticut State Police trooper was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Interstate 84 in Southington on Thursday.

State police identified the victim as Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, of Troop H in Hartford. He was a nine-year veteran of the Connecticut State Police.

Authorities said Pelletier, 34, was conducting a traffic stop on I-84 east near Exit 31 when he was struck.

“Preliminary information shows the right side wheels of the pickup were completely over the dividing line into the shoulder, sideswiped Trooper Pelletier’s cruiser and then struck Trooper Pelletier in the shoulder while he was speaking with the operator,” Sgt. Luke Davis, with Connecticut State Police, said.

Pelletier was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver who hit Pelletier drove away, state police said. The suspect, who was not immediately identified, was later located and taken into police custody on I-84 in Farmington.

“TFC Pelletier was a member of 125th Training Troop and a nine-year veteran of the Connecticut State Police. TFC Pelletier served the citizens of the state of Connecticut with an unwavering sense of dedication, pride and professionalism, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten,” state police said.

Pelletier leaves behind his wife and two children.

He spent the past three years as a K-9 officer with K-9 Roso. Authorities said Roso was in the state police cruiser at the time of the crash, but was not hurt.

A miles-long procession was held in honor of Pelletier on Thursday evening and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont directed flags to half-staff in honor of the trooper.

“I am devastated to learn about the loss of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, who was killed today in the line of duty while serving the people of Connecticut. This is a tragic reminder about the dangers law enforcement face every day when they leave their homes and go to work. Trooper Pelletier served Connecticut with honor, integrity, and commitment, and he embodies the definition of public service. His courage and bravery will never be forgotten,” Gov. Lamont said, in part, in a statement released Thursday.

Both sides of I-84 in Southington were closed because of the crash, but have since reopened.

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