Alexander Dennis Death
A tragic incident occurred early Thursday morning in Stratford, resulting in the loss of four lives, including a Fairfield University student. Alexander Dennis, a member of the class of 2025, had recently completed his junior year and was heading home to Massachusetts when the crash took place.
Fairfield University has confirmed that Dennis was a student in the College of Arts and Sciences, specializing in visual and performing arts with a particular focus on film.
The university expressed deep sorrow over the loss, especially during a time when they are celebrating their students’ achievements. President Mark R. Nemec, PhD, acknowledged the profound impact of Dennis’ passing on those who knew and loved him, and assured the campus community that support services such as Jesuit colleagues, Campus Ministry, Counseling Center, and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) are available to provide assistance during this difficult time.
In the fall, when students return to campus, the university plans to commemorate Dennis’ life and the positive impact he had on the community. The fatal crash occurred on the Merritt Parkway in Stratford around 1:45 a.m.
State police reported that Dennis was driving in the wrong direction on Route 15 South when his vehicle collided with another car carrying three individuals.
The occupants of the other car, identified as Steven Rowland, Thomas Lucian Vitale, and Olga Vitale, all residents of Easton, also lost their lives in the accident.
Tragically, all four individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
