Stafford, Connecticut – A 19-year-old Stafford man is facing multiple criminal charges after state police say he caused a drunken driving crash at a busy roundabout in Stafford during the early afternoon hours. Authorities reported that the collision occurred after the teen allegedly followed another vehicle too closely and failed to stop in time, leading to a rear-end crash.
The incident happened on January 6 at approximately 1:04 p.m., prompting a police response and an on-scene investigation that later resulted in underage DUI-related charges.
Incident Overview
According to Connecticut State Police, the crash took place at the Route 319 roundabout intersection in Stafford, an area that sees regular traffic flow throughout the day. Investigators determined that the teen driver was traveling eastbound when the collision occurred.
Police say the driver was operating a 2008 Honda Accord and struck a 2018 Toyota C-HR while approaching the roundabout. The impact caused damage to both vehicles, though no serious injuries were immediately reported at the scene.
Timeline of Events
State police outlined a clear sequence leading up to the crash:
- At 1:04 p.m., troopers were dispatched to the Route 319 roundabout following reports of a two-vehicle collision.
- Upon arrival, officers spoke with both drivers and assessed the scene.
- Investigators noted indicators that the 19-year-old driver may have been impaired.
- Field sobriety tests were conducted roadside shortly after the initial contact.
Following the evaluation, police determined the teen did not pass the sobriety tests.
Details From Police
In their official crash report, state police stated that the teen failed multiple field sobriety tests, leading officers to conclude that alcohol impairment was a contributing factor in the crash.
The driver was subsequently charged with driving under the influence while underage and following too closely, both of which are considered serious offenses under Connecticut law.
“Based on observations at the scene and the results of field sobriety testing, the operator was determined to be under the influence of alcohol,” police noted in their report.
The identity of the teen has not been released, which is common in cases involving younger defendants and pending court proceedings.
Key Facts From the Investigation
- Age of driver: 19 years old
- Date of crash: January 6
- Time: 1:04 p.m.
- Location: Route 319 roundabout, Stafford
- Vehicles involved: 2008 Honda Accord and 2018 Toyota C-HR
- Charges: Underage DUI and following too closely
Police confirmed that alcohol was a factor and that the crash stemmed from tailgating behavior rather than weather or road conditions.
Additional Context on Underage DUI
Under Connecticut law, drivers under the age of 21 are held to a zero-tolerance alcohol policy. Even a small amount of alcohol can result in DUI charges, license suspension, fines, and mandatory court appearances.
Underage DUI incidents are treated especially seriously because of the heightened risk they pose to public safety. According to traffic safety data, younger drivers are statistically more likely to underestimate stopping distances and reaction times, particularly in complex traffic areas such as roundabouts.
Safety and Awareness for Drivers
Police emphasized that roundabouts require extra caution, particularly during daytime hours when traffic volume can increase. Tailgating significantly raises the risk of rear-end collisions, especially in circular intersections where vehicles slow and yield frequently.
Drivers are reminded to:
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Avoid alcohol before driving under any circumstances
- Use heightened caution in roundabouts and intersections
- Understand that underage drinking and driving carries automatic legal consequences
More information on impaired driving enforcement can be found through the Connecticut State Police via their official public safety updates.
Conclusion
The Stafford roundabout crash serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with underage drinking and driving, particularly in high-traffic roadway designs. While no serious injuries were reported, police say the situation could have ended far worse.
Authorities continue to stress that responsible driving decisions protect not only the driver but everyone sharing the road.
If you witnessed the crash or have experienced similar safety concerns in your area, share your experiences in the comments below.
