A teenager has died nearly two weeks after he was seriously injured in a three-car crash in Glastonbury that initially left him in critical condition.
Lt. Kevin Szydlo of the Glastonbury Police Department said Wednesday that the 15-year-old was one of two people who were seriously injured in a crash reported on Oct. 24 at 8:53 p.m. on Route 94, which is also known as Hebron Avenue.
The victim was identified by Glastonbury High School Principal Nancy Bean as Dillon Dupuis, who was a sophomore.
Dillon Dupuis was part of the high school’s Crew Team and band and was a Glastonbury Fire Cadet. (Courtesy of GoFundMe)
“It is with great sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that one of our students, Dillon Dupuis, has passed away from injuries sustained in an automobile accident last week,” Bean wrote in a letter to the school community. “Dillon was a cherished member of the GHS community, participating in various activities, including the crew team, band and Glastonbury Fire Cadets.”
“His warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew him,” Bean said. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family and friends as they navigate this tremendous loss.”
A GoFundMe initially started to help cover the teen’s medical expenses had raised more than $53,000 as of Thursday. He was an “amazing musician” who enjoyed spending time with his friends laughing and joking, the fundraiser said. Dupuis was described in the GoFundMe as “kind, determined and full of life.”
Dillon Dupuis was described in a GoFundMe as kind, determined and someone who was full of life. (Courtesy of GoFundMe)
According to Szydlo, the first officers and medics who arrived at the scene of the crash tended to the occupants of all three vehicles. Crews from the Glastonbury Fire Department extricated the two individuals who were suffering the most serious, life-threatening injuries before they were taken to a hospital, Szydlo said.
A preliminary investigation found that a vehicle being driven west on Hebron Avenue lost control while negotiating a left curve near 3066 Hebron Ave., according to Szydlo. The driver then collided with an oncoming eastbound vehicle and was subsequently struck by a second eastbound vehicle, Szydlo said.
Szydlo said Dupuis was a passenger, though it was not immediately clear which vehicle he was in.
Bean told families that the school’s counselors, psychologists and support staff are available to assist “anyone in need.”
“The passing of a student deeply affects our entire school community,” Bean said. “We want to ensure that everyone feels supported during this difficult time.”
“Do not hesitate to reach out for support,” Bean told families.
“We have also included resources to help families guide children through grief and loss,” Bean said. “Please take advantage of these materials and connect with our support services whenever needed.”
