WESTPORT, CT – Maximilian Harper, 18, of Westport, lost his life in a tragic accident that happened on Wednesday afternoon. His dirt bike and a fully loaded dump truck collided on Old Hill Road, according to Westport police.
Harper was pronounced dead after the crash, Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas said. 15:15 accident. Harper, heading south, Met a northbound dump truck at a suspicious bend in the road just south of Partrick Road. It was while trying to navigate a sharp corner that the cars collided.
Chief Koskinas expressed the department’s deep sorrow and shared that they extend their sincere condolences to the Harper family and the entire community at this painful time.
Westport Public Schools Superintendent Thomas Scarris shared more of the sad news in an email to the school system community, confirming that Harper was the principal at Staples High School. In light of this devastating loss, school will be running on a two-hour delay on Thursday, with all sporting events suspended. Grief counselors will also be available for students coping with unexpected tragedy.
“This loss strikes deeply at the heart of our school and the wider community.” Scaris conveyed in his letter. “I’m sure many of us, especially our students, will feel the profound impact in the days ahead.” Scaris’ full letter is below.
In an effort to avoid the crash, the dump truck operator, whose identity has not been released, veered off the road and hit several trees. The truck eventually overturned, scattering its contents. The operator was transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
The Westport Police Detective Bureau, assisted by the Accident Investigation Team and the Fairfield Police Accident Investigation Team, are continuing to investigate the crash. Due to the accident, Old Hill Road was closed between Partrick and Broadview roads while a thorough investigation was carried out
