Uxbridge police officer killed by tractor-trailer while on duty, officials say

Local News

The Uxbridge police officer leaves behind a wife and child, the DA said.

An Uxbridge police officer was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer in the early hours of Wednesday while responding to a multi-vehicle crash, officials said. 

“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and ask the media to respect their privacy at this time,” Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early, Jr. said in a press release. 

Officer Stephen LaPorta, 43, was aiding a motorist outside his vehicle on the northbound side of Route 146 when he was struck by a tractor-trailer; he was ultimately pronounced dead at the scene, the DA said. The driver of the tractor-trailer was taken to a nearby hospital and treated for minor injuries, Early’s office said. The assisted motorist was not injured, wrote the DA.

As of Wednesday, Governor Maura Healey ordered all flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings honoring LaPorta. 

“I am heartbroken over the news of Officer Stephen LaPorta’s passing. He knew he was headed into a dangerous situation where he responded to the scene of a multi-vehicle crash, but like all of our officers do day in and day out, he put the public’s safety first – and he tragically made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Healey in a statement. 

The crash came as area meteorologists warned of icy weather conditions on Tuesday night that could result in slick roads Wednesday morning. 

“May result in slick roads, especially if untreated. Use caution if traveling,” the National Weather Service posted on X. 

The investigation surrounding LaPorta’s death is ongoing. The DA urges anyone who traveled through the area during the time of the crash to notify State Police detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office at 508-832-9124.

Julia Keane, a spokesperson for Early’s office, declined to comment further on the crash.