Philip Labonte Obituary, Death Cause: A tragic accident in Bethany has claimed the life of a motorcyclist who was involved in a two-part crash on Monday night, according to Connecticut State Police.
Authorities were called to the scene at around 9:39 p.m. after reports of a serious accident on Route 69 near Wooding Hill Road. Upon arrival, they found that the incident involved a motorcycle and a car.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle was traveling northbound on Route 69 when it collided with a deer that entered the roadway. The impact caused the rider to be thrown from the motorcycle and land on the pavement.
While the motorcyclist was lying on the road following the collision with the deer, a 2009 Subaru Impreza traveling along the same road struck him. Emergency responders arrived shortly after and pronounced the motorcyclist dead at the scene.
The victim has been identified as 37-year-old Philip Labonte of Thomaston. His death marks a devastating loss, and authorities have confirmed that the investigation into the crash is ongoing.
State police are now asking for the public’s assistance in gathering more details surrounding the incident. Anyone who may have witnessed the accident or has relevant dashboard camera footage is encouraged to contact Trooper Patrick Miko at 203-393-4200 or via email at Patrick.Miko@ct.gov.
Officials have not yet released further information about the driver of the Subaru or whether any charges may be filed. The investigation is expected to continue as authorities work to determine all the factors involved in the fatal incident.
The stretch of Route 69 near Wooding Hill Road was temporarily closed as investigators documented the scene and emergency crews attended to the aftermath. The road has since been reopened.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers motorcyclists face, particularly at night and in rural or wooded areas where wildlife is prevalent. Hitting a deer while riding a motorcycle can be especially dangerous due to the rider’s exposure and limited protection compared to enclosed vehicles.
As police continue their investigation, they aim to determine if speed, visibility, or other contributing factors played a role in the tragic outcome. At this point, no further injuries have been reported, and authorities are focused on understanding the sequence of events that led to the fatality.
The state police have extended their condolences to the family and friends of Philip Labonte as they deal with the unexpected and heartbreaking loss. Support and cooperation from the community may help provide more clarity in the case.
Anyone who may have seen the crash or has any potentially helpful information is urged to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.