VERNON, Conn. (WTNH) — A 7th-grade science teacher at Springfield Prep Charter School in Springfield, Mass., is dead, and three others were injured in a crash involving a Vernon police officer Sunday night.
According to Vernon police, the crash occurred in the area of Hartford Turnpike and Center Road just after 7 p.m. Officer Andre Lisee, a four-year veteran of the department, left the police station in his patrol car to respond to a call to help officers who had responded to an incident involving a man who violated two protective orders. Police said the man fought with officers after he was handcuffed.
Vernon police Lt. Robert Marra said Lisee’s lights were flashing when it collided with a white Nissan Sentra at the intersection.
“Two officers were in dire need of assistance,” Marra said. “He [Officer Andre Lisee] was in emergency mode with at least lights. I know that for a fact. I don’t know about the sirens, but I would assume he was.”
Police said Bianca Colon, 26, was in the front passenger seat and was pronounced dead on scene. The driver, a 33-year-old man, was taken to a hospital with serious injuries. A 1-year-old child in the backseat was also taken to a hospital with minor injuries. All three lived in Vernon, police said.
Bill Spirer, the founder and executive director of Springfield Prep Charter School, sent a statement to News 8 following the beloved teacher’s death.
“Bianca was a dear colleague, friend, and teacher at Springfield Prep, and her death is a devastating loss to our community,” Spirer said. “As we reflect on her life and mourn with one another, we are offering our students and staff members counseling and support services today and in the days ahead.”
Lisee sustained injuries but is expected to be OK, according to police.
“He’s shaken up, but I believe he’s OK and has some injuries as well,” Marra said.
The Manchester Police Department is overseeing the investigation. Anyone with information or who may have witnessed the crash is asked to call Sgt. Justin Gaudino at (860) 645-5565.
