UXBRIDGE, Mass. — Law enforcement officials have identified the Uxbridge police officer who died in a crash while helping a driver on an icy highway early Wednesday morning.
The crash happened on the northbound side of Route 146 near mile marker 5.6 around 12:40 a.m., according to the Uxbridge Police Department.
Uxbridge Police Chief Marc Montminy identified the officer as 43-year-old Stephen LaPorta.
During an afternoon news conference, Montminy revealed that LaPorta was assisting a driver when he was tragically struck by a tractor-trailer.
“This heartbreaking incident reminds us of the risk law enforcement officers take every day. Officer LaPorta gave his life in service to this community, a sacrifice we will never forget,” Montminy said at the news conference. “In our eyes, he was a hero. This is a devastating loss to our department and our community.”
LaPorta was promoted to a full-time officer in June 2024. He had previously served as a dispatcher.
He leaves behind a wife and a 13-year-old child.
LaPorta was pronounced dead at the scene, despite life-saving efforts by emergency responders.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the officer’s family, loved ones, and fellow officers during this incredibly difficult time,” Montminy added.
The driver of the tractor-trailer was transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Additionally, the motorist that LaPorta was assisting was physically uninjured
Montminy didn’t say whether the tractor-trailer driver would face charges in connection with the crash.
Video from the scene showed a procession of police cruisers, along with a vehicle from the state medical examiner’s office, escorting LaPorta after the crash.
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Route 146 was closed for several hours while investigators processed the scene.
Counseling and support services were being made available to members of the Uxbridge Police Department. Police departments across the state also offered condolences and thoughts in the hours after the crash.
Town officials were quick to hang black bunting outside Uxbridge police headquarters, a traditional symbol of respect for fallen law enforcement members.
“It’s just shock. I don’t know him personally, I didn’t know the family personally, but it felt like a friend was affected,” a town resident told reporters.
Gov. Maura Healey ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in honor of LaPorta.
In a statement, Healey said, “I am heartbroken over the news of Officer Stephen LaPorta’s passing. He knew he was headed into a dangerous situation when he responded to the scene of a multi-vehicle crash, but like all of our officers do day in and day out, he put the public’s safety first – and he tragically made the ultimate sacrifice. My prayers are with his loved ones, the Uxbridge Police Department, and our brave law enforcement and public safety officials all across the state. I ask Massachusetts residents to take a moment today to reflect on the bravery of Officer LaPorta and thank members of law enforcement for all that they do to keep us safe.”
Massachusetts State Police are leading an investigation into LaPorta’s death.
Montminy urged anyone who witnessed the crash to contact the Office of Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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