According to the Waterford Police Department, the crash occurred around 11:20 p.m. on Route 32 near Smith Cove, just before Richards Grove Road. Responding officers found that Peabody’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle had collided with a roadside guardrail before veering off the highway. The impact threw Peabody from the motorcycle into a nearby wooded area.
Emergency responders from Waterford Police and local rescue teams arrived within minutes, but despite their efforts, Peabody was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the crash.
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The Accident Reconstruction Team is leading the investigation, examining potential factors such as road conditions, visibility, speed, and mechanical failure. A section of Route 32 was closed for several hours overnight as officers collected evidence and worked to ensure the roadway was safe for reopening.
Police are appealing to the public for assistance, asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area to contact investigators at 860-442-9451 or submit anonymous tips at 860-437-8080.
The tragic loss of Thomas Peabody has left both the Westerly and Waterford communities mourning. Friends and neighbors have shared heartfelt tributes on social media, remembering him as a dedicated, kindhearted man who had a lifelong passion for motorcycles.
In the wake of the tragedy, police are reminding motorists and riders alike to practice extra caution on rural and curving highways like Route 32—particularly at night, when reduced visibility and uneven road surfaces can increase the risk of accidents.
The Waterford Police Department expressed its deepest condolences to Peabody’s family and friends and extended gratitude to first responders for their quick and professional actions at the scene.
As the investigation continues, authorities have pledged a thorough review to determine what led to the crash and to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.” />
Authorities in Connecticut are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that claimed the life of 55-year-old Thomas Peabody of Westerly, Rhode Island, late Saturday night.
According to the Waterford Police Department, the crash occurred around 11:20 p.m. on Route 32 near Smith Cove, just before Richards Grove Road. Responding officers found that Peabody’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle had collided with a roadside guardrail before veering off the highway. The impact threw Peabody from the motorcycle into a nearby wooded area.
Emergency responders from Waterford Police and local rescue teams arrived within minutes, but despite their efforts, Peabody was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the crash.
The Accident Reconstruction Team is leading the investigation, examining potential factors such as road conditions, visibility, speed, and mechanical failure. A section of Route 32 was closed for several hours overnight as officers collected evidence and worked to ensure the roadway was safe for reopening.
Police are appealing to the public for assistance, asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area to contact investigators at 860-442-9451 or submit anonymous tips at 860-437-8080.
The tragic loss of Thomas Peabody has left both the Westerly and Waterford communities mourning. Friends and neighbors have shared heartfelt tributes on social media, remembering him as a dedicated, kindhearted man who had a lifelong passion for motorcycles.
In the wake of the tragedy, police are reminding motorists and riders alike to practice extra caution on rural and curving highways like Route 32—particularly at night, when reduced visibility and uneven road surfaces can increase the risk of accidents.
The Waterford Police Department expressed its deepest condolences to Peabody’s family and friends and extended gratitude to first responders for their quick and professional actions at the scene.
As the investigation continues, authorities have pledged a thorough review to determine what led to the crash and to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.