Car struck a pedestrian near Village Square Drive, leaving one dead
April 17, 2026 | New Britain, CT
A 38-year-old man lost his life in a tragic pedestrian accident in New Britain on Friday night, as reported by local authorities.
What Happened in the New Britain Pedestrian Crash?
Matthew Croskey, 38, died after being struck by a vehicle near Hartford Road and Village Square Drive in New Britain.
The incident unfolded around 10:50 p.m. near the intersection of Hartford Road and Village Square Drive. According to the New Britain Police Department, a vehicle struck Matthew Croskey, who was actively searching for his stolen car at the time.
- Victim Details: Matthew Croskey, age 38, from the local area.
- Location: Hartford Road and Village Square Drive, New Britain, Connecticut.
- Time: Approximately 10:50 p.m. on April 17.
- Vehicle Involved: A car that remained at the scene after the collision.
- Immediate Response: Croskey was transported to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
The driver stayed on site following the crash. Officials are conducting a thorough investigation and urge witnesses to contact the New Britain Police Department at 860-826-3090 with any relevant information.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian incidents represent a growing concern nationwide, often stemming from driver inattention. Data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) highlights the rising trend in such fatalities.
Year |
Pedestrian Fatalities in the U.S. |
Connecticut Estimate |
|---|
2023 |
Increasing trend |
Baseline |
2024 |
Substantial growth |
60 deaths, up 20% |
Sources: Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), state traffic reports.
Common factors include distractions like mobile devices, speeding, or failure to yield. These crashes frequently lead to severe outcomes for those on foot.
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes
National legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, provides a perspective on handling such cases.
“In cases such as this, driver negligence often plays a key role. Distractions from cell phones, haste, or lack of vigilance can result in devastating injuries for pedestrians,” Finkelstein stated.
Key takeaways from the analysis:
- Reconstructing the scene is vital to identify all parties and the fault.
- Competent legal representation protects the rights of those affected.
- Insurance firms may shift blame to minimize claims, requiring skilled advocacy.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims Following the Incident
Families impacted by fatal pedestrian accidents may pursue compensation for loss of companionship, emotional distress, and related hardships.
“Victims endure profound physical and mental suffering, leaving loved ones to navigate the aftermath. Engaging experienced counsel is crucial to counter insurance tactics and secure fair outcomes,” noted Finkelstein, a national legal analyst for Newsline.
Pending results from the ongoing investigation, Croskey's relatives could explore these options. Authorities emphasize the importance of professional guidance over direct insurer interactions.
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Newsline''s national legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one need support, he’s available for a free consultation to help guide you.
(Andrew G. Finkelstein, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices to help you, please call 855-976-8163 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).