In Hartford, Connecticut, a 20-year-old man found responsible for a tragic car accident, which resulted in the death of a police officer and left another critically injured, admitted guilt to various charges on Tuesday, including manslaughter.
Originally an 18-year-old high school junior during the 2023 incident, Richard Barrington is expected to reappear in court on June 20 for sentencing. His attorney, Cameron Atkinson, confirmed his guilty plea encompasses charges of manslaughter, first-degree assault, and hindering a police officer.
Investigations revealed that Barrington evaded a traffic stop by police, subsequently ran two red lights, and collided with a police car attending an unrelated emergency call on September 6, 2023.
Officer Robert “Bobby” Garten, who had dedicated eight years to the Hartford police and whose father was a retired detective, succumbed to his injuries following the crash, local authorities confirmed. Officer Brian Kearney, Garten’s partner, sustained severe injuries, although he was later discharged from medical care.
Initial charges against Barrington pertained to vehicular offenses connected with the traffic stop. However, additional charges of first-degree manslaughter, assault, drunk driving, and several other alleged violations were subsequently pressed.
Atkinson refrained from commenting on Barrington’s admission of guilt, stating, “We’re gonna save all of our comments for Judge (David) Gold at the sentencing hearing.”
Officer Garten was honored with a memorial that saw law enforcement from surrounding areas join in tribute.