A tragic collision on Interstate 95 South in Guilford, Connecticut, has claimed the life of 32-year-old firefighter Michael P. Terrio. He was a respected member of the local emergency services community.
Loved ones, colleagues, and residents across the shoreline are mourning. Folks remember him for his dedication, compassion, and service to his neighbors.
Explore top-rated stays with no booking fees and instant confirmation. Your dream trip starts here!
Start Exploring Now
Terrio’s passing has sent ripples of grief through towns from Killingworth to Branford. The investigation into the accident is still underway.
Fatal Crash on I-95 South Near Exit 59
State police say the accident happened Friday evening near Exit 59 on I-95 South in Guilford. Terrio’s vehicle hit another car from behind.
First responders rushed him to the hospital. Despite their efforts, he didn’t make it.
The driver of the other vehicle suffered minor injuries and went to the hospital too. Thankfully, those injuries weren’t serious.
Officials from towns like New Haven, Clinton, and Madison have all expressed condolences. They’re also reminding drivers to be extra careful on busy interstate stretches, especially where traffic can change in a blink.
Impact on the Connecticut Firefighting Community
Terrio was actively serving as a firefighter in Guilford at the time of the crash. He also worked with the Branford Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 2533 as a part-time medic.
His service extended beyond his home department. He started out at Middlesex County Fire School, which has trained hundreds of emergency personnel from towns across Connecticut, including Middletown and Old Saybrook.
Guilford Fire Chief Michael Shove called Terrio “a dedicated and compassionate professional.” To support grieving colleagues, the department will offer peer assistance and counseling services.
These services help first responders cope when tragedy strikes close to home. Sometimes, that kind of support is what keeps people going.
A Legacy of Service and Commitment
Terrio set a high bar for public service, both on the fire ground and as a medic. His efforts in Branford and Guilford made a real impact on those around him.
Towns along the shoreline corridor — from Westbrook to East Haven — have come together to honor his memory. It’s touching to see such unity.
Community Mourning and Support
Across Connecticut, firehouses are lowering flags and paying tribute. The firefighting community’s solidarity stretches far, with mutual aid departments from Milford to Norwich sharing condolences.
Organizers expect firefighters from many departments to attend Terrio’s funeral once plans are finalized. Memorials like these often bring out lines of engines and ladder trucks, a powerful sight that says, “We’re all in this together.”
Ongoing State Police Investigation
The exact cause of the Friday night crash is still under investigation. State police are working to piece together what happened and figure out the contributing factors.
Officials are asking anyone with dashcam footage or information to contact investigators. Every bit helps.
Road Safety Reminders
This tragedy is a tough reminder about staying alert and keeping safe distances on highways like I-95. Traffic can slow down suddenly, especially through Shoreline Connecticut — Branford, Guilford, Old Lyme — it’s a busy stretch and gets congested fast.
- Keep a safe following distance at all times
- Reduce speed in congested traffic or poor weather
- Stay attentive to changing road conditions
- Don’t let distractions like phones pull your focus
For local drivers from Hartford to Stamford, safe driving habits really do make a difference. It’s worth remembering—no one wants to see another devastating accident like the one that took Firefighter Terrio’s life.
Honoring a Fallen Firefighter
Michael P. Terrio gave his all to protect and serve the people of Connecticut. He showed courage, skill, and a big heart—honestly, the kind of qualities you hope for in a firefighter.
Guilford, Branford, and Killingworth are mourning right now. The whole Connecticut community feels it too.
Soon, there will be formal memorials. Friends, family, and fellow firefighters will gather to pay respects and remember a life of service that ended far too soon.
—
Would you like me to also create a **meta description** for this post to boost its SEO performance?
Here is the source article for this story: Man dies following crash on I-95 in Guilford
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now