Victim's Family Reacts to Deadly Pedestrian Accident

A nephew of the pedestrian who was struck by a school bus on Clark Street in New Britain and later died said more needs to be done to prevent pedestrian deaths in the city.

Police said Charles Mercurio, 81, was crossing Clark Street on Wednesday morning when he was struck by a Dattco bus.

The victim's nephew, Michael Mercurio, described his uncle as a "very loving, caring guy."

He said he can't understand how his uncle was struck by a school bus since he remembers him being very cautious while crossing the street.

"He (would say), 'don't cross yet. Watch the light,'" Michael Mercurio said.

Investigators said the school bus that struck the elderly man was carrying three students from New Britain Alternative High School. None of the students, nor the driver, was hurt.

Charles Mercurio was in critical condition when he was taken to the hospital, but didn't survive.

"Just hearing about his death ... it's shocking," said Michael Mercurio.

Those who live near the site of the accident are also upset by the death.

"I can't imagine how an 81-year-old guy died, just by crossing the street. That's really sad," said Bishmel Campbell.

Meantime, Michael Mercurio said more needs to be done to make sure that, unlike his uncle, pedestrians aren't killed while crossing the street.

"I think they should put cameras on the intersections, and (police) could see what's going on," he said.

The Dattco bus company released a statement saying it's cooperating with police in the investigation. At this point, it's unknown whether the driver will be charged.
 

Contact Us