Connecticut Teenager Faces Manslaughter Charges After Fatal Car Crash Involving Hartford Police Officer
HARTFORD, Conn. – In a tragic incident that has shaken the community, an 18-year-old Connecticut teenager has been charged with manslaughter and driving under the influence following a car crash that claimed the life of a Hartford police officer and left another officer seriously injured. The accused, identified as Richard Barrington, appeared in Hartford Superior Court on Thursday as the new charges were added.
The incident occurred on September 6 when Barrington fled a traffic stop conducted by other officers, disregarded two red lights, and collided with the passenger side of a cruiser that was responding to an unrelated emergency call. Officer Robert Bobby Garten, an eight-year Hartford police veteran, tragically lost his life due to the injuries sustained in the crash, while Officer Brian Kearney was seriously injured but has since been released from the hospital.
Initially charged with motor vehicle-related crimes in connection to the traffic stop, Barrington now faces additional charges including first-degree manslaughter, first-degree assault, and driving under the influence. These charges were added after Barrington admitted to fleeing the traffic stop because his car was unregistered, he did not possess a driver’s license, and he had marijuana in his possession. According to the arrest warrant affidavit released by state police, Barrington also admitted to smoking marijuana about an hour before the crash.
Barrington, who is currently a high school junior and has no previous criminal record, remains in detention on $1 million bail. The case has garnered significant attention, and a memorial service held for Officer Garten last week saw police officers from across the region come together to honor their fallen comrade.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community mourns the loss of Officer Garten and prays for the recovery of Officer Kearney. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and the devastating impact that reckless behavior can have on innocent lives.
