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New Haven Police Officer Killed in Las Vegas Crash; 2nd Officer Faces Charges

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A New Haven police officer was killed in a car crash Friday morning in Las Vegas, the New Haven Police Department announced, and a second officer who was driving the car is facing charges.

The department identified the officer killed as Joshua Castellano. Castellano is a seven-year veteran of the force and a member of the department's shooting task force.

"At this time, we ask for support as our entire department is in shock and grieving," the police department said in a press release.

Castellano was the passenger in a car with several other New Haven officers, including Officer Robert Ferraro, who was driving.

According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, witnesses said the 2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan the group was in was speeding down the street when the driver lost control. The car crashed into a Ford Mustang, utility poles and a fire hydrant and rolled over.

Las Vegas Police said Ferraro, 34, showed signs of impairment after the crash. He was arrested and faces charges of driving under the influence and reckless driving, according to Nevada court records.

Four other passengers in the car, and the driver of another car involved, suffered minor injuries.

The New Haven Police Department declined to comment on the charges Friday night and said they would be making a statement on Saturday.

“My thoughts and condolences are with the family of Officer Castellano as well as his friends and colleagues at the New Haven Police Department,” said Mayor Justin Elicker in a statement. “Officer Castellano served our community for seven years. We’re thankful for Officer Castellano’s service; he will be greatly missed.”

The Las Vegas Police Department continues to investigate the crash.

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