Hartford, Connecticut – A somber cloud descended upon the city of Hartford as 34-year-old police officer Robert Garten lost his life in the line of duty on Wednesday, September 7, while another officer remains critically injured following a tragic collision. The heart-wrenching incident unfolded when a teenage driver, 18-year-old 11th-grade student Richard Barrington, crashed into their patrol car.
The fateful evening began with Officer Barrington pulling over the young driver for a traffic signal violation. However, the routine stop took a serious turn when it was discovered that the vehicle’s registration had been canceled. In an attempt to evade the authorities, the teenager attempted to flee the scene, triggering a pursuit by the officers.
During the harrowing chase, the suspect allegedly ran two red lights, leading to a devastating collision with another police vehicle occupied by Officer Robert Garten and his colleague, Officer Brian Kearney.
Tragically, the impact of the crash claimed the life of Officer Robert “Bobby” Garten, an esteemed eight-year veteran of the Hartford Police Department. Officer Kearney, who suffered severe injuries, was rushed to the hospital, where his condition is gradually stabilizing.
The loss of Officer Garten has sent shockwaves through the Hartford community. In a press conference held on Thursday, the Hartford Police Department, grappling with grief, paid a heartfelt tribute to the fallen officer. The flags outside the department’s building flew at half-staff as Police Chief Jason Thody spoke of Garten’s unwavering dedication to his job and his commendable service in the department.
“[Bobby] was an amazing person who exemplified what it means to be a Hartford police officer. His commitment to serve was above reproach. Our HPD family has come together to support Bobby’s family, honor his memory, and do what he would want us to do, protect and serve the Hartford community,” Chief Thody stated.
Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin joined in mourning the loss of this exceptional officer and extended his condolences to Garten’s family and colleagues:
“My heart and prayers and the love and prayers of our whole city are with Officer Garten’s parents, family, loved ones, friends, and colleagues, and the entire HPD family.”
The men and women of Constable Mark Herman’s Office extend their heartfelt condolences to the Hartford Police Department as they mourn the loss of Officer Robert Garten, who was killed when his unit was struck by a fleeing vehicle speeding through a red traffic light. pic.twitter.com/v5r2M7wJUp
— Mark Herman, Harris County Constable Precinct 4 (@Pct4Constable) September 8, 2023
Mayor Bronin went on to emphasize Garten’s deep love for the city and his unwavering dedication to the Hartford Police Department. He described the officer’s service as marked by distinction, courage, skill, and compassion, acknowledging the immeasurable void left by his passing.
Bronin also revealed that Officer Garten’s tragic death had elicited an outpouring of love and support from police departments across the country, underscoring the profound impact of his service on the law enforcement community.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
