4 people killed in 3-car Newington crash

Table of Contents

Four people, including three family members, were killed in a crash on Willard Avenue Saturday, according to the police department. One person survived.

NEWINGTON, Conn. — Newington police and volunteer firefighters responded to a serious multi-vehicle crash Saturday morning.

Four people died in the crash on Willard Avenue around 9 a.m., according to the Newington Police Department. Three vehicles were involved in the collision.

Newington police say that first responders attempted live-saving measures, but all four victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

“It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the passing of Newington High School senior, Gabriela Difo,” said leaders from Newington Public Schools in a statement to families following the accident.

“She was involved in a fatal car accident earlier today in Newington that also claimed the lives of her mother, Florinda Tineo, and her aunt, Jeannette Tineo,” the district continued.

Crisis support personnel will be available to help students and staff impacted by the accident when they return to school on Monday.

Another victim involved in the crash reportedly sustained minor injuries, Newington police reported in a release. Members of the department said their thoughts are with all those affected during this incredibly difficult time.

Sign up for the FOX61 newsletters: Morning Forecast, Morning Headlines, Evening Headlines

The cause of the crash is being investigated by the Mid-State Accident Reconstruction Squad. Any community member who witnessed or has information regarding the collision is encouraged to contact Newington Police Officer Lambros at 860-594-6229.

As of Saturday afternoon, Newington police said no further details are being released pending appropriate notifications and the ongoing investigation.

Some local residents have long been worried a crash like this could occur.

“It’s like a race track here sometimes,” said John LeTourneau, who lives near where the accident happened.

LeTourneau and his wife Mallory told FOX61 that speeding has been a major problem on the road since they moved in two years ago, and it’s kept the children in the family up at night.

“Sometimes, just pulling into our driveway [is difficult] because you’re worried about a car slamming into you,” said Mallory.

Willard Avenue between Robbins Avenue and Wilson Avenue was closed to traffic for at least several hours as investigators processed the scene. The roadway has since been reopened.

This is a developing story. FOX61 has a crew on the scene and will update this story as more information comes in.

Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com