Ansonia man charged in connection with fatal accident on Pershing Drive

Isac Saravia

 

ANSONIA - Police arrested Isac Saravia, 26, of Ansonia Wednesday as part of the investigation into the Sept. 24, 2025 fatal motor vehicle accident on Pershing Drive involving Adonis Lapuppet-Bligen. 

Saravia was charged with reckless endangerment first degree and reckless driving. 

He posted a  $75,000 bond and is to appear at Derby Superior Court for arraignment on Nov. 12, Lt. Patrick Lynch said today in a release.

During the course of the investigation detectives learned that Saravia was driving his own car following closely behind the car driven by Lapuppet-Bligen right before the accident where Lapuppet-Bligen died. 

With the assistance of the Fairfield Police Department Accident Reconstruction Unit it was determined that Saravia and Lapuppet-Bligen were travelling approximately 80 MPH just prior to the accident, Lynch said. The investigation was unable to establish probable cause that the cars were racing. 

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has concluded their investigation: Lapuppet-Bligen’s cause of death was blunt force trauma and manner of death was accident. 

A toxicology report showed that Lapuppet-Bligen had a blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the accident of .089, a BAC of .080 is considered intoxicated in Connecticut.

 

Chief Williams thanks the Connecticut State Police, Derby Police Department, Fairfield Police Department, Ansonia Fire Department, and Ansonia Public Works for their assistance in the investigation. 

He also commends the Ansonia Police Department’s Detective Bureau and Patrol Division for their work in investigating the incident.

 

All arrestees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This is a press release from Lt. Patrick Lynch.

Ansonia police charge Seymour man in parking lot disturbance

George Suazo

ANSONIA - George Suazo, 21, of Seymour was arrested by warrant Oct. 25 for his involvement in an incident on Oct. 3, 2025 in the parking lot of the Target store. 

Suazo was involved in a disturbance and attacked one of the responding officers during the investigation, injuring the officer, Lt. Patrick Lynch said today in a release. 

Suazo was charged with assault on a police officer and breach of peace second degree. He posted a $25,000 bond and his court date is Nov. 7, 2025 at Derby Superior Court.

 

All arrestees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This is a press release from Lt. Patrick Lynch.

Ansonia police charge 5th person in April street takeover

Joseph Yeager

ANSONIA  - Police arrested Joseph Yeager, 21, of Meriden Wednesday on a warrant for his involvement in the April 26, 2025 street takeover in Ansonia, Lt. Patrick Lynch said today in a release. 

Yeager is the fifth arrest in the investigation and believed to the person, seen on video, who jumped on the hood of the police cruiser during the incident. 

Detectives continue to investigate to identify others involved in the incident.

 

Yeager was charged with riot first degree, conspiracy to riot first degree, breach of peace second degree, and racing. 

He was held on a $100,000 bond and his next court appearance will be at Derby Superior Court on Nov. 25, 2025.

 

All arrestees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the police department at 203-735-1885 or anonymous tips can be left at Tip411 at the link below.

https://www.tip411.com/tips/new?alert_group_id=21553

This is a press release from Lt. Patrick Lynch.

Seymour Public Library to show movie 'The Naked Gun' Wednesday

 SEYMOUR - Free Movie Wednesday at Seymour Public Library to feature "The Naked Gun."

The movie starts at 1 p.m.

All are welcome! The Library is at 46 Church St.

YA Wednesdays, Teen Advisory Board meeting slated at Derby Public Library

DERBY - Derby Public Library invites young adults ages 12 to 17 to YA Wednesdays' Teen Game Time Nov. 5 and 12 from 5-6:30 p.m. Nintendo Wii and tabletop games are available. 

Light refreshments will be provided. 

For more information stop by the Library, 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org .

Teen Advisory Board

DERBY - Derby Public Library invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to a Teen Advisory Board meeting at 3:30 p.m. Nov. 19.

Attendees are encouraged to voice their ideas for improving and expanding young adult library services and teen programming. 

Focus will include participant input that contributes to the library fulfilling its mission of quality-of-life enhancements in: knowledge; entertainment; and citizenship. 

For more information stop by the Library, 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org .

This is a press release from Tony DeLos, young adult librarian.

Learn therapeutic touch Nov. 15 at Griffin Hospital in Derby

DERBY - Griffin Hospital is promoting well-being in the community with a Foundations of Therapeutic Touch workshop on Nov. 15 from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Therapeutic Touch is a holistic, evidence-based practice that incorporates the intentional and compassionate use of universal energy to promote balance and well-being. The purpose of this workshop is to explain the concepts and practice of Therapeutic Touch, allowing time for hands-on practice.

The workshop is open to the public. Participants must complete mandatory self-directed education prior to class and must attend the entire workshop session to receive credit.

Workshop instructors are Holly Major, NP, MSN, QTTT, an adult nurse practitioner and the Therapeutic Touch Coordinator for Griffin Hospital, and Anita Jain, MSN, MS, CCRN-K, QTTP, the Administrative Nursing Supervisor with Griffin Hospital. Both have been teaching Therapeutic Touch since 2000 and are qualified instructors through Therapeutic Touch International Associates, the international association of Therapeutic Touch.

Cost for the public is $100, payable by check or cash prior to workshop, which includes all class materials. Any public attendee that becomes a Griffin Hospital volunteer and gives 50 hours of service can defer receiving their completion certificate and receive a refund. 

Griffin Health employees and current volunteers can register for free.

The deadline to enroll is Nov. 7. 

For more information, or to enroll, contact Wendy Farrington at 203-732-7434 or wfarrington@griffinhealth.org.

Griffin offers Therapeutic Touch to its patients as a way to reduce stress and promote healing. This training program is part of Griffin’s ongoing effort to transform healthcare by not only treating illness, but also helping people stay healthy. 

Griffin actively empowers individuals to play an active role in their health and wellbeing by providing them with information, tools and support to prevent, or proactively manage chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, depression and stress.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Shelton Libraries to close Nov. 11 in honor of Veterans Day

 

Seymour Public Library to host Fun Tuesday event on Election Day

SEYMOUR - Seymour Public Library will host  Drop-in Election Day Open Video Game Play from 1-4 p.m. Nov. 4.

Drop in at any point in the afternoon and play with our Nintendo Switch, XBOX, and PS5!

We will also have board games available for those who prefer to play games the “old-school” way, as well as a craft station. Best for ages 6-18 and their accompanying grown-ups (only required for ages 12 and under)!

The Library is at 46 Church St.

Shared from a Facebook event page.

Griffin Hospital to hold open house at Naugatuck campus for LPN careers

 

From the photo archives: Neighborhood colors

 

I had to go back to this date in 2022 to find some autumn color in the neighborhood to post. 

The foliage wasn't as vibrant this season, sad to say. 

Derby Police arrest Waterbury man on multiple motor vehicle charges

DERBY - Patrol Officer Tirado initiated a motor vehicle stop Oct. 24 on Nasir Gibson [DOB May 15, 1991] of Waterbury for motor vehicle violations. 

During the stop, Gibson displayed signs of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, police said. After failing standard field sobriety tests, he was placed under arrest for DUI.

Police said further investigation revealed Gibson was illegally in possession of a loaded firearm equipped with a large-capacity magazine. As a result, Gibson was additionally charged with the following offenses:

Criminal Possession of a Firearm (CGS 53a-217)
Criminal Possession of a Large-Capacity Magazine (CGS 53-202w)
Weapon in Motor Vehicle (CGS 29-38)
He was held on a $750,000 bond.

The Derby Police Department remains committed to removing illegally possessed firearms from our streets and ensuring the safety of our community.

We ask if you see a vehicle being operated erratically — speeding, swerving, or showing signs of impaired driving — don’t ignore it call 911. Your call could prevent a serious crash and save lives. 

Provide as much detail as possible:

-Location and direction of travel
-Vehicle make, model, and color
-License plate (if possible)

Shared from the Derby PD Facebook page.

Ansonia Police to present scam prevention event at senior center

 

Derby Public Library showcases heritage quilt square

Though the Valley Heritage Quilt has moved on to a new home at the Valley Community Center, Derby Public Library is still showcasing each quilt square to highlight the beautiful & diverse heritage of the Valley.

Today's square is...

UNITED KINGDOM : ENGLAND, SCOTLAND & WALES

In this block, the red velveteen represents England with the purple stitching adorned with pearls as symbols of the monarchy. Scotland is represented by the tartan plaids and thistle-patterned fabrics. The flower stitching represents the English love of gardens.

The Library is at 313 Elizabeth St., Derby.

Shared from the Library's Facebook page.

Valley United Way shares local food support locations

 

Salvation Army in Ansonia to host Fall Harvest Festival Thursday

 

'Turnback Tuesday' features Hotchkiss Hose 100th anniversary ribbon

Turnback Tuesday is sharing one of the artifacts in Derby Public Library’s collection: A delegate pin/ribbon from the Firemen’s Convention held in Derby in August 1937, the year Hotchkiss Hose celebrated 100 years.

Hotchkiss Hose #1 was formed on June 7, 1837 by Edward N. Shelton, Julius Hotchkiss, Ephraim Curtiss and Edward Lewis.

The first headquarters was in a barn owned by L. Loomer on the corner of Third and Minerva Streets in Derby.

The current location is on David Humphreys Road. Hotchkiss Hose has been serving the citizens and businesses of Derby for 188 years. Thank you. 

Thanks as always to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.

Ansonia Library posts November programming for children

 

Food drive Nov. 16 at Quarry Walk to benefit Seymour Oxford Food Bank

 

Master's Table to hold craft fair Nov. 15 at Assumption Church in Ansonia

 

Master's Table to offer Thanksgiving meal at Assumption Church Hall in Ansonia

🦃

 

Vaccination clinic slated Tuesday at Derby Senior Center

Get your flu shot Tuesday, Oct. 28 between 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the Derby Senior Center! This is our last scheduled public clinic.

Appointments at the NVHD office are available by calling 203-881-3255 x 107.

From the 'Turnback Tuesday' archives: Derby Post Office

This week's "Turnback Tuesday" is a picture of the Derby Post Office on Olivia Street built in 1932. The first Derby Post Office was actually on Main Street and was built in 1798.

The current Post Office is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. It served as a fall-out shelter during World War II and has changed from this picture since being made ADA compliant in the 1990s.

[First posted on this date in 2015.]

Thanks as always to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.

Oxford Parks & Recreation to hold annual (free throw) turkey shoot

OXFORD - A Basketball Free Throw Shooting Contest for children and their adults will be held 5-8 p.m. Nov. 18 at Oxford High School, 61 Quaker Farms Road.

Have some fun, show off your skills and you could even win a can of cranberry sauce, a bag of stuffing, a baked pie, or even a turkey for your Thanksgiving Dinner!!

Griffin Health to hold free virtual weight-loss seminars

 

Griffin Bariatrics will offer free virtual presentations on its weight-loss services throughout November.

Led by Griffin Hospital Director of Bariatrics Dr. Abe Fridman, these seminars will explain how bariatric surgery can help patients lose significant amounts of weight, enhance their health, and provide long-term well-being. Additionally, techniques, support programs, pre- and post-operative expectations, and insurance questions are also discussed.

Upcoming seminars will be held on Nov. 4 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Nov. 19 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; and  Nov. 25 from 12-1 p.m.

Griffin Hospital established its comprehensive weight loss surgery program, Griffin Bariatrics, to provide a medical solution for patients with more substantial weight loss needs. 

The long-term success enjoyed by Griffin Bariatrics patients is a result of excellent medical care, including the latest minimally invasive surgical procedures, combined with access to a full range of multidisciplinary services that have been assembled to support them before, during, and after their surgery.

To register, contact Bariatric Care Specialist Kimberly Fisher at kfisher@griffinhealth.org or 203-732-7108. 

For more information about Griffin Bariatrics, visit griffinhospitalbariatrics.com.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop in Derby posts daily sales

Come shop these a-maize-ing sales all week! Our focus is providing for our food pantry - and strong store sales help us do that! 

Also please reach out if you'd like to volunteer or run a food drive - every bit helps!

Ansonia Senior Center to hold Christmas party Dec. 18

Ansonia Senior Center Christmas Party!!! December 18 at Birchwoods at Oak Lane in Woodbridge. 

Reserve your tickets now as seats are limited. See flyer for complete details.

From the photo archives: An October memory

 Taken on this date in 2015.

Derby Neck Library ready to celebrate Halloween this week

DERBY - Coming up this week in the Children's Room, as we celebrate Halloween at Derby Neck Library:

Tuesday - Vampire Snail Story and Craft @ 5pm

Wednesday - Kids' Movie of the Month: Hocus Pocus @ 5pm

Thursday - Tales and Tunes: Coco @ 5 pm

Friday - Boo Bash 2025 @ 4-6 pm

Please note: The library is closed Friday except for Boo Bash.

The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.

Enjoy free concert 'Jack Sings Dino' Dec. 2 at Seymour Public Library

 

From the 'Turnback Tuesday' archives: Freeman family in Derby

This week's "Turnback Tuesday" photo is of Nancy Freeman - the wife of the (in)famous "black governor," Roswell Freeman. The photo was taken in the backyard of her home, which was located where Osbornedale Park is now. 

The Freemans lived in Derby during the early and mid 1800s. In 2012, the area where the Freeman home was believed to have stood was excavated in order to learn more about the family and the role "black governors" had in Derby.

[First published on this date in 2016.]

Thanks as always goes to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week. 

 

Trick or Trunk on tap Friday at Shelton Intermediate School

 

Recuperation journey 2.0: Almost sunset

Early evening glow.
 

Heav'nly Donuts in Derby to host annual Fill the Crosley event Sunday

DERBY - Heav’nly Donuts will hold its season finale Cruise and Food Drive for Spooner House from noon-5 p.m. Sunday. 

Heav'nly Donuts is at 653 New Haven Ave.

Donations of non-perishable food items will go to Spooner House in Shelton.

Rain date is Nov. 2.

CBT Valley Thanksgiving basketball giveback clinic slated at Derby Middle School

 

Derby Public Library to host wreath-making workshop Nov. 17

 

Recuperation journey 2.0: Looking at the sky

Interesting clouds at 5 p.m. today. 

Derby-Shelton Rotary to deliver sand, salt to seniors, disabled; signups required

Safe Kids Worldwide honors Griffin Health for child safety leadership

Safe Kids Worldwide President Torine Creppy, center, presents Griffin Health Community Outreach Special Programs Supervisor Cathi Kellett and Griffin Health Executive Vice President and COO Todd Liu with the Safe Kids Champion for Children Award.

DERBY – Griffin Hospital was recently honored with the Safe Kids Champion for Children Award at the Safe Kids Worldwide International Childhood Injury Prevention Convention (PrevCon) for its outstanding contributions toward preventing childhood injuries.

“Griffin Health is honored to be recognized by Safe Kids Worldwide, which has been an international leader advancing the health and wellbeing of children through its advocacy and programmatic support,” said Griffin Health Executive Vice President and COO Todd Liu. “We are gratified by this award and the acknowledgement of the work being done by Griffin’s many caregivers to fulfill our commitment to provide education and services that advance the safety of all individuals in our community.”

The Safe Kids Champion for Children Award recognizes an individual, business, government agency, or organization that has made a significant impact in the field of child injury prevention.

The award was presented at the three-day gathering that convened more than 600 child health and safety professionals from around the world, including academic researchers, community activists, health care providers, manufacturers, public health and injury prevention practitioners, and policy makers.

More than 20 individuals and organizations were honored for their leadership in the field.

“Griffin Hospital exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner, combining data, strategy, and compassion to make families safer,” said Torine Creppy, president of Safe Kids Worldwide. “We are honored to work with Griffin’s amazing team to advance our shared goal of reducing the risk of preventable injuries to kids.”

Located in Connecticut’s Greater Naugatuck Valley, Griffin Hospital implements evidence-based initiatives such as their Walking School Bus and safe sleep education programs to meet families where they are. Their ongoing commitment to innovation and outreach is improving health outcomes in the community.

“We're humbled to receive this recognition from the nation's largest injury prevention organization," said Cathi Kellett, Griffin Health Community Outreach Special Programs supervisor and Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley coalition coordinator. "As part of Griffin's person-centered care, we truly believe that empowering both children and adults with knowledge and tools in a learning-through-play approach helps keeps kids healthy and safe. Our commitment to our community is at the core of everything we do and we are so grateful that our community is so receptive and supportive.

PrevCon is one of the largest gatherings of individuals and organizations dedicated to childhood injury prevention. Preventable injuries are the number one cause of death for children in the United States. Throughout the world, almost one million children die of an injury each year, and almost every one of these tragedies is preventable.

About Safe Kids Worldwide

Safe Kids Worldwide is a nonprofit organization working to reduce unintentional injuries to children ages 0-14 and build equitable and sustained systems that support injury prevention. Since 1988, Safe Kids and its partners have contributed to a more than 60 percent reduction in the rate of fatal childhood unintentional injury in the U.S. Learn more at safekids.org.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.