East Haddam, CT (July 19, 2025) – A head-on crash along Route 82 in East Haddam on Saturday evening, July 19, left one man dead and three others injured, according to Connecticut State Police.
The collision occurred around 7:15 p.m. near a curve in the roadway, involving two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. Following the impact, one vehicle spun off the right shoulder of the eastbound lane, while the other overturned and came to rest on its roof in the middle of the highway.
Three individuals inside one of the vehicles, including a 52-year-old man from Ellington, sustained injuries. Two of them were transported to the hospital for treatment. The other driver, identified as 29-year-old Patrick Lanahan of Wallingford, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency crews responded quickly to secure the area and aid the injured. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by state authorities.
Route 82 was temporarily closed as investigators worked to document the scene and clear the wreckage. Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Connecticut State Police.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased victim. We also hope those hurt recover swiftly.
Connecticut Car Crashes
Tragic car accidents claim hundreds of lives each year across Connecticut, turning ordinary days into moments of unimaginable loss. Whether it happens on a busy highway or a quiet rural road, the impact of a fatal crash reaches far beyond the scene—leaving families struggling with grief, unanswered questions, and unexpected financial burdens.
At Kanca Law Firm, we understand the heartbreak families face after losing a loved one in a motor vehicle accident. While nothing can replace the person you’ve lost, pursuing a wrongful death claim may help provide the financial relief needed during such a difficult time. Surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral costs, loss of income, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
Connecticut law allows families to pursue justice when a fatal crash is caused—directly or indirectly—by another driver’s actions. Under the state’s wrongful death statute, a personal representative of the deceased can file a claim seeking compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. However, proving these claims requires strong evidence, timely legal action, and a thorough understanding of state law.
Our experienced wrongful death attorneys are here to help guide you through the legal process with compassion and clarity. We’ll handle the investigation, gather key evidence, and advocate fiercely on your behalf to hold the responsible party accountable. Your family deserves answers—and a trusted legal ally by your side.
With over a decade of experience, The Kanca Law Firm LLC has built a reputation for delivering results and standing up for families impacted by fatal collisions. We’re committed to helping you pursue the justice your loved one deserves and ensuring you’re not left to carry the financial and emotional burden alone.
If you’ve lost someone in a fatal crash, call Kanca Law Firm today at 203-806-7003 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to listen, support, and fight for what matters most—your family’s future and your loved one’s memory.
