Two Killed in Prospect, Connecticut Crash; Investigation Underway

A tragic three-vehicle crash in Prospect, Connecticut, early Thursday morning left three people dead and several others hurt. The wreck on Route 69 stopped morning traffic and drew emergency crews from all over the area.

Investigators are still trying to figure out what exactly happened. The crash started with a failed passing attempt that led to a deadly chain reaction.

Find Your Ideal Getaway in Connecticut
Explore top-rated stays with no booking fees and instant confirmation. Your dream trip starts here!
Start Exploring Now

Deadly Crash on Route 69 Shakes Prospect Community

Just before 5:30 a.m., the collision happened at Route 69 and Talmadge Hill Road. Connecticut State Police said a pickup truck heading south tried to pass a Tesla but didn’t make it—slamming into the Tesla instead and sending it spinning out of control.

Sequence of Events Leading to the Tragedy

After the impact, the Tesla spun across the center line into the northbound lane. There, it collided head-on with another pickup truck driving toward Prospect.

The crash with the oncoming truck was brutal. Seconds later, the first pickup hit the Tesla a second time, making things even worse for those inside.

Victims Identified from Prospect, Waterbury, and Florida

Police identified the victims soon after. Andrew Kozel, 57, from Avon Park, Florida, drove the Tesla and died at the scene.

His passenger, Andrew Joseph Kozel, 24, of Prospect, also died instantly. Edmund Frank Szantyr, 68, from Waterbury, was riding in the northbound pickup and died at the hospital not long after.

Other Injuries Reported

The northbound pickup’s driver suffered serious injuries and needed immediate care. The driver and passenger in the first pickup had only minor injuries, according to police.

Impact on Route 69 and Surrounding Traffic

After the crash, Route 69 stayed closed for hours while investigators worked the scene. This busy road links several Connecticut towns—New Haven, Waterbury, Bristol, Cheshire, Southington, and Prospect.

Morning drivers had to scramble for alternate routes through places like Naugatuck and Wolcott. It was a mess for commuters.

Emergency Response

State police and local officers from Prospect and Waterbury showed up quickly. EMTs and fire departments from Cheshire and Naugatuck also pitched in, helping survivors and keeping things under control.

They redirected traffic and made sure the area was safe.

Safety Concerns and Lessons for Connecticut Drivers

This crash really drives home how risky passing on busy roads can be, especially early in the morning when it’s harder to see. Connecticut State Police often remind drivers to stay cautious and patient, especially on two-lane roads like Route 69 that cut through both suburbs and countryside.

Always check for clear road conditions before trying to pass.

Keep your speed under control for safe handling.

Watch for curves, intersections, and traffic from side streets.

Remember—a single impatient move can change lives forever.

Community Mourning and Support

Prospect and Waterbury are feeling the loss deeply. Neighbors and support groups are stepping up to help the families left behind.

Religious groups and local charities from Bristol, Southington, and beyond are working together, offering counseling and financial help to those affected by the tragedy.

Ongoing Investigation

As of Thursday afternoon, Connecticut State Police are still digging into the crash. They’re talking to witnesses and looking over traffic camera footage.

Officers are also checking out the vehicles involved. Accident reconstruction specialists want to figure out exactly what happened.

If you saw anything or know something about the crash, police want you to call the Troop I barracks in Bethany. Every little detail matters to them.

For more updates on this story or other traffic safety news in Connecticut, keep an eye on local media and follow state police channels.

—

If you’d like, I can also create a **meta description** and keyword list for this blog post so it ranks well for search engines. Would you like me to do that?

Here is the source article for this story: Two killed in crash in Prospect

Discover Your Perfect Stay in Connecticut
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now