WATERBURY, CT — A 13-year-old boy is recovering from serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle in a residential neighborhood of Waterbury on Monday afternoon. The incident, which occurred just before 4 p.m., has sparked renewed concerns among residents about speeding and traffic safety in areas frequently used by children.
Crash Details and Emergency Response
The collision took place around 3:55 p.m. in the 120 block of Bishop Street, near the intersection with Burton Street. Police say the boy was riding his bicycle along the side of the road when he was struck by a vehicle under circumstances that remain under investigation.
Emergency medical services responded quickly, and the boy was transported to a local hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Preliminary information from the scene indicated the teen may have suffered a broken leg and other blunt force trauma. Authorities have not released his name due to his age, but he is reportedly in stable condition.
The driver involved in the incident remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with investigators, according to the Waterbury Police Department. There have been no arrests or citations issued at this time.
Bishop Street was closed for several hours as the Crash Reconstruction Unit worked to document the scene, analyze skid marks, and gather potential surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have asked any witnesses to come forward.
Community Safety Concerns
The crash has deeply unsettled residents of the Bishop Street neighborhood, a tightly knit community where children frequently ride bikes, walk, and play outdoors. Several neighbors said speeding and inattentive driving are growing problems on the narrow, hilly street.
“This could’ve been my kid,” said Nicole Ramirez, a mother of two who lives three houses from the crash site. “We’ve asked for speed bumps and better signs for years. Maybe now the city will listen.”
Waterbury city officials acknowledged the increasing concerns about pedestrian safety and said they are reviewing the area for potential improvements, including traffic calming measures, crosswalk visibility upgrades, and enhanced patrols by the police department’s traffic enforcement unit.
“Anytime a child is injured, it is a community tragedy,” said Waterbury Mayor Neil O’Leary in a brief statement. “We’re thankful the injuries weren’t fatal, and we’ll be working with residents and law enforcement to ensure safety is improved in this area.”
Investigation and Public Appeal
The Waterbury Police Department continues to examine the factors involved in the crash, including vehicle speed, road conditions, visibility, and possible distractions. Investigators are seeking any nearby surveillance footage or eyewitness testimony to complete their review.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Waterbury Police Department at 203-574-6941 or submit anonymous tips through the department’s confidential tip line.