A fatal crash in New Haven claimed the life of a 25-year-old driver after his car collided head-on with a CT Transit bus on Friday evening. Police have identified the victim as Jordan Betancourt-Escorza, a resident of New Haven.
According to investigators, video surveillance footage captured the moments leading up to the crash. Betancourt-Escorza was driving a Volkswagen Golf GLS southbound along Middletown Avenue when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle crossed over into the northbound lane. The car struck a CT Transit bus traveling in the opposite direction, resulting in a devastating impact.
Responding officers and emergency crews arrived quickly at the scene. Betancourt-Escorza was found in the driver’s seat with severe injuries. Despite life-saving efforts by firefighters and medical personnel, he was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Officials confirmed that no passengers on the CT Transit bus sustained serious injuries. Authorities have not released details on the number of individuals aboard the bus at the time of the collision, but they noted that the driver and riders were evaluated for precautionary purposes. The incident remains under investigation by the New Haven Police Department Accident Reconstruction Team.
The cause of the crash has not yet been determined, and investigators are continuing to review roadway evidence, witness statements, and the video footage. Authorities have not indicated whether speed, impairment, or distraction may have played a role in the collision. Police emphasized that updates will be provided as soon as more information is confirmed.
The tragedy has left family, friends, and the New Haven community grieving the sudden loss of a young man. Betancourt-Escorza’s death serves as another reminder of the dangers present on local roadways and the importance of driver awareness. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact the New Haven Police Department as the investigation continues.