Tragic Crash Claims Life of Beloved Hartford Police Officer: Teen Suspect Apprehended
In a devastating incident that has left a community in mourning, a dedicated police officer lost his life while on duty in Hartford. Robert Garten, a 34-year-old member of the Hartford Police Department, was tragically killed in a car crash involving a teenage driver on Wednesday, September 7th. Another officer, Brian Kearney, was critically injured in the collision.
The chain of events leading to the fatal crash began when Officer Garten pulled over the teenage driver, identified as 18-year-old Richard Barrington, for a traffic signal violation. During the routine traffic stop, it was discovered that the registration of the suspect’s vehicle had been canceled. Faced with the prospect of consequences, Barrington attempted to flee the scene, prompting a pursuit by the officers.
The men and women of Constable Mark Herman’s Office extend their heartfelt condolences to the Hartford Police Department as they mourn the loss of Officer Robert Garten, who was killed when his unit was struck by a fleeing vehicle speeding through a red traffic light. pic.twitter.com/v5r2M7wJUp
— Mark Herman, Harris County Constable Precinct 4 (@Pct4Constable) September 8, 2023
During the chase, the teenage driver reportedly ran two red lights, leading to the devastating collision with the patrol car occupied by Officer Garten and Officer Kearney. Tragically, Robert Garten succumbed to his injuries and lost his life, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of his loved ones and the entire Hartford community. Officer Kearney, who suffered serious injuries, was rushed to the hospital, where he is currently in stable condition.
Officer Robert Bobby Garten was an eight-year veteran of the Hartford Police Department, where he served in the street crimes unit, focusing on combating gun violence and removing firearms from the community. His dedication and commitment to his job earned him esteem and respect among his colleagues. The Hartford Police Department, deeply saddened by the loss, expressed their grief and paid tribute to Garten during a press conference. Police Chief Jason Thody praised Officer Garten’s exemplary service and described him as an outstanding officer who lived for his duty to protect and serve the community.
The death of Officer Robert Garten has sent shockwaves throughout Hartford and beyond. Mayor Luke Bronin conveyed the city’s mourning, expressing heartfelt condolences to Officer Garten’s family, friends, and colleagues. He highlighted Garten’s love for the city and his unwavering dedication to the Hartford Police Department, emphasizing that the loss is immeasurable for all who knew and worked with him. The tragic incident has also garnered an outpouring of support from police departments across the country, showcasing the unity and solidarity within the law enforcement community.
Retired Hartford Police Officer Jill Kidik, who trained Robert Garten, hailed him for his exceptional skills and competence as an officer. She emphasized the significant impact Garten had in his role, stating that officers like him are rare to find.
The teenage driver involved in the crash sustained minor injuries and was arrested after being discharged from the hospital. Richard Barrington, an 11th-grade student, faces multiple charges, including failure to obey a traffic control signal, failure to renew registration, misuse of plates, and interfering with police.
As the community mourns the loss of Officer Robert Garten, funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, further adding to the sorrow felt by his loved ones and colleagues. The legacy of this dedicated officer will forever be remembered in the hearts of those who knew and appreciated his unwavering commitment to his duty and community.
