An 8-year-old Branford boy remains in serious condition at Yale New Haven Hospital after he was involved in a bicycle accident on June 30 shortly after 3 p.m. The incident occurred when the bicyclist and his two brothers were riding their bikes on Surrey Lane and entered the intersection of Coachman Drive. At that point the boy collided with a car being driven by Robert Smet, 64, of West Haven. The boy was transported immediately to Yale New Haven Pediatric Hospital by Branford Fire Department paramedics for head injuries that he sustained during the crash.
Branford Police Department accident re-constructionists have conducted an investigation with the assistance of East Haven Police Department and determined that the injured boy was not wearing a bicycle helmet.
“The investigation has concluded and no arrests are anticipated,” said Officer Brett Johnson who led the investigation.
Chief John DeCarlo said the incident is tragedy for the boy’s family as they begin their summer season.
“Our heart felt sympathy goes out to the family of this little boy. The men and woman of our agency are praying for his recovery from the terrible event.” DeCarlo continued, “I would like to remind all of our citizens that the use of protective bicycle headgear is mandatory by law for children under the age of 15. In fact, all riders should use helmets as it greatly reduces the possibility of head injuries if involved in a crash.”