On October 22, 2021, at approximately 1:00 PM, Troop K received reports of a two car motor vehicle collision on Route 354 by Lake Hayward Road in Colchester. Investigation revealed that the operator of a black Nissan Altima had witnessed the accident and was not involved in the accident.
A 2010 red Nissan Altima, which was being operated by 19 year old Jacob Chapman attempted to pass the witness vehicle at a high rate of speed on the left, while both vehicles were traveling westbound. Chapman, for an unknown reason, left the roadway in the Nissan Altima and collided with a metal beam guardrail as well as multiple trees before coming to final rest down an embankment. Jacob Chapman was pronounced deceased at the Marlborough Medical Clinic.
There were 2 passengers in the car, 19 year old Tyler Graham was pronounced dead on the scene, and 20 year old Trey Massaro was transported by Life Star for serious injuries to Hartford Hospital.
Next of kin were notified. The state’s medical examiner, The CARS accident reconstruction unit, Colchester Fire Department, and DOT also responded to the scene. Route 354 at Lake Hayward Road was closed for approximately five hours. This collision is still under investigation.
Jake graduated from Bacon Academy High School in Colchester and currently was a student at Western Connecticut State University studying Business Administration where he played Lacrosse.
Tyler graduated from Bacon Academy High School in Colchester and currently was a student at Western Connecticut State University studying Business Administration and also played Lacrosse.