Report of a car that struck the center barrier on I-95 Southbound by exit 24. First responders are on scene so expect some traffic delays while they handle the situation.
Tonight’s Vehicle Fire
Tonight’s vehicle fire is hosted by Fairfield on Woodridge Avenue. The engine compartment was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived.
2024-08-06@11:03pm
Hit By A Train
Bridgeport Emergency Communications received reports of a man falling onto the train tracks at 525 Water Street. The man became stuck between the platform and a departing train. The man has been transported to the hospital with unknown injuries. No further information is available at this time.
2024-08-06@8:53pm–#Bridgeport CT– #MTA
Tragic Crash
Bridgeport, CT – Mayor Ganim and Dr. Carmela Levy-David have issued statements regarding the tragic incident involving nine family members of a Bridgeport Board of Education custodial staff member:
Dr. Carmela Levy-David stated, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the devastating news that one of our cherished custodial staff members has suffered an unimaginable loss. Nine members of their family were tragically killed in a car accident out of state. On behalf of the entire Bridgeport Public Schools community, I extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to our colleague and their family during this incredibly challenging time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate through this profound grief. We kindly ask that everyone respects the privacy of our staff member and their family. In moments like these, it is crucial to provide them the space and time they need to mourn and heal. Bridgeport Public Schools is committed to supporting our employee in every possible way. We are here to offer any assistance and comfort they may need during this period. Together, as a community, we stand with our colleague, offering our prayers, support, and love.”
Mayor Ganim stated, “On behalf of the City of Bridgeport, I want to express our deepest condolences to the custodial staff member who lost their family members during a tragic accident. The amount of grief that comes from losing a loved one is never easy, and unfortunately, this instance calls for an unparalleled amount of sorrow as multiple losses have taken place. All our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the custodial staff member and the rest of their family as they embark on a mournful journey toward healing. The City of Bridgeport echoes the sentiments made by Dr. Carmela-Levy David and we encourage all to allow the custodial staff member enough space to heal and grieve at this time.”
Town of Fairfield to Host 2nd Annual Oktoberfest
FAIRFIELD, CT — The Town of Fairfield is excited to announce that Fairfield Oktoberfest will return on September 14 from 2:00 – 6:00 PM in the Lot at FTC located at 70 Sanford Street in downtown Fairfield. Now in its second year, this event is a partnership of the Fairfield Office of Community & Economic Development, Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department, and Fairfield Theatre Company.
The event will feature live music by Dennis Polisky & Maestro’s Men and the Benny Mikula Band (of Alpaca Gnomes) along with axe throwing and corn hole. Local food trucks with festive food offerings will be on site as well as vendors presenting a curated selection of adult beverages for those 21 and older. Commemorative Fairfield Oktoberfest t-shirts and steins will be available for purchase.
Community & Economic Development Director Mark Barnhart added, “With the success of last year’s event, we are excited for the return of Fairfield Oktoberfest! This is a unique opportunity to gain marketing exposure at an annual event that draws a large crowd to our downtown. It’s always great to partner with FTC, one of the premier live music venues in the State.”
Bridgeport House Fire
Fire Department UPDATE: At 5:45pm Bridgeport Fire Department was dispatched to the 1700 block of Noble Ave for a structure fire in a single family home. Arriving units found heavy smoke showing from the structure and commenced an aggressive interior fire attach while searching for occupants. Fire was declared under control in approximately 30 minutes with no injuries to department members. AMR evaluated 1 civilian for possible smoke inhalation and the Red Cross will be relocating 2 adults and 1 teenage son. The Fire Marshal’s Office will be investigating the cause of the fire.
The homeowners came home and found the fire department in their house in the 1700 block of Noble Avenue. An unconfirmed report said it started in a back bedroom. The fire marshal was called in to investigate the cause
2024-08-05@5:46pm–#Bridgeport CT– #ctfire
Norwalk News: Additional Arrests Made in Ely Avenue Shooting Case
On Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 6:54 PM, Norwalk Police Combined Dispatch received multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired at the 200 block of Ely Avenue, the Roodner Court Public Housing Complex. Patrol Officers arrived and found evidence of gunfire. A 15-year-old victim was subsequently dropped off at Norwalk Hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The Detective Bureau took over the investigation, leading to the swift arrest of the shooter. Further investigation revealed the involvement of other participants, resulting in arrest warrants for those individuals. As of now, all involved parties have been arrested.
Essence Broome, 33, was arrested on August 2, 2024. She faces charges of Risk of Injury to a Child and Trespassing 3rd Degree, with a bond set at $100,000. Her court date is August 16, 2024. Latrel Stewart, 24, was also arrested on August 2, 2024. He is charged with Breach of Peace 2nd Degree, Criminal Attempt of Assault 2nd Degree, and Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree, with a bond set at $50,000. His court date is August 16, 2024.
GOVERNOR LAMONT ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF NEW STATE GRANT PROGRAM ON HOME HEALTH CARE WORKER SAFETY
Home Health and Access Agencies Can Begin Applying for the Grants on August 7, 2024
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced the impending launch of the In-Home Safety Grant Program, a new state grant program administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services aimed at enhancing the safety and security of home health care workers in Connecticut.
Established by the enactment of Public Act 24-19 – which was approved by the Connecticut General Assembly during the 2024 regular legislative session and then signed into law by Governor Lamont – this program will provide grants to home health and access agencies to fund improved safety protocols and support services for their workers. This includes items such as emergency alert buttons, buddy escort systems, tracking devices, safety training, risk-scoring tools, safety consultants, and the establishment of dedicated phone lines for staff in the field to access immediate support.
“Ensuring the safety and well-being of both our home health care workers and the individuals they serve is a top priority for the state,” Governor Lamont said. “This grant program is a significant step towards providing the necessary tools and training to protect workers who provide an invaluable service to our state, especially for those who are most vulnerable. I look forward to a continued collaboration with our community partners to maximize the impact of these resources and increase the safety of home health care workers.”
“Prioritizing the safety of our caretakers took precedence this year,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “A disproportionate number of home health care workers are women and women of color who serve in our vulnerable communities every single day. It is important we provide safer environments and the training and skills necessary for them to do their jobs without personal risk.”
“By investing in these safety measures, we are not only protecting our dedicated health care workers, but also ensuring that our clients receive the highest quality care in the safest possible environment,” Social Services Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves said.
Creating this program was a specific priority for many lawmakers this year. The legislation that authorized it was approved by votes of 34 to 1 in the Senate and 112 to 37 in the House of Representatives.
Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) said, “Making life easier for the people who work tirelessly to support so many in our state is something sorely needed, which is why this program was part of Senate Bill 1 this year – our foremost priority as a caucus. Home care workers perform vital care for countless Connecticut residents, and they should be able to go to work without concerns over their safety. These workers enable many frail and elderly people to continue living in their own homes rather than in institutions and deserve our gratitude, support, and protection.”
State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said, “Violence is unfortunately a growing problem for health workers, especially home care workers. After the deaths of multiple home care workers in late 2023 and early 2024 in Connecticut, including the murder of home care nurse Joyce Grayson, we need to do better by those who keep us safe. I’m glad this grant program will become a new resource helping the hardworking individuals who perform necessary, personal care for so many.”
State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport Fairfield), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said, “Our job is to help the helpers and protect home health care workers who are doing their jobs – helping others. Through new provisions including safety training and emergency alerts, our state is making critical progress in protecting both workers and patients alike. I thank Governor Lamont and all of our community partners for their support for this bill.”
State Senator Heather Somers (R-Groton), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said, “Home health care workers are the unsung heroes who provide essential care to our most vulnerable residents, often at great personal risk. They face numerous challenges, including the threat of violence, while performing their duties. We are proud to have passed legislation that will provide much-needed grants to home health and access agencies to fund enhanced safety protocols and support services, ensuring a safer working environment for these invaluable workers.”
State Representative Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R-Beacon Falls, Derby, Seymour), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said, “I’m happy these grants are being made available to help provide the training and resources to create a safer working environment for our dedicated home healthcare workers. Protecting home healthcare workers was a priority this session and these funds and the increased and enhanced training and oversight will undoubtedly provide increased safety and peace of mind.”
State Representative Jane Garibay (D-Windsor, Windsor Locks), co-chair of the legislature’s Aging Committee, said, “This grant program will help to ensure that our home health care workers, so dedicated in their service to our elderly and other vulnerable populations, can now have the tools and resources they need to assure workplace safety and wellbeing. Our home health care workers deserve an environment free from violence or harassment. Prioritizing workplace safety was a primary goal of Speaker Ritter and the Aging Committee. It benefits our aging population, and I am proud to have been a part of supporting this effort.”
Home health and access agencies interested in applying for grants can begin submitting applications to the Connecticut Department of Social Services starting August 7, 2024. An online application form will be made available on that date at portal.ct.gov/dss/common-elements/home-and-community-based-services.
The application process is designed to ensure timely and efficient distribution of funds, allowing agencies to quickly implement these crucial safety measures. The first round of grants are anticipated to be released by the end of October.
The initial launch of this program is being financially supported by $6 million in funding allocated by the Connecticut General Assembly and Governor Lamont through funding the state received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
Route 8 Crash
Report of a crash requiring firefighters for one person needing extrication in a crash on Route 8 southbound near exit 15 (Route 34 exit).
2024-08-05@1:09pm–#Shelton CT–#cttraffic
Stratford News: 4 car crash
Report of a 4 car crash on I-95 Northbound by exit 29. Expect traffic delays for some time.
