Southington, Connecticut — Tragedy struck the Connecticut State Police force on May 30, 2024, when State Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, a nine-year veteran, was killed in a hit-and-run incident on Interstate 84. The incident occurred around 3:30 PM, during a routine traffic stop. Trooper Pelletier, 35, was outside his vehicle when a red pickup truck struck him and fled the scene. The driver, later identified as 45-year-old Michael Thompson, was apprehended hours later after a statewide alert.
Pelletier’s death marks the 26th Connecticut State Trooper to die in the line of duty. He leaves behind a wife and two children, ages 7 and 4. Trooper Pelletier was also accompanied by his K-9 partner, Rosso, who was uninjured in the incident.
A procession was held in honor of Trooper Pelletier, with fellow officers and emergency personnel escorting his body from the scene to the medical examiner’s office. The Connecticut State Police have expressed profound grief over the loss and emphasized the importance of the ‘Move Over Law,’ which requires drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Witnesses are encouraged to come forward with any information that could assist the authorities.
Photo Credit to: CT State Police
