71-Year-Old Bridgeport Man Dies After Car Strikes Concrete Post, Police Say
BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — A 71-year-old man from Bridgeport has died following a single-car crash Saturday afternoon, according to police.
Authorities identified the victim as Robert Knuckles, who was behind the wheel of a black Acura Lexus at the time of the collision. The crash occurred around 12:45 p.m. at the busy intersection of Broad and Elm streets in downtown Bridgeport.
Police said Knuckles had been driving north on Broad Street when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle suddenly left the roadway and struck a concrete post on the sidewalk at the intersection. The impact left visible damage to both the vehicle and the post, drawing a swift response from emergency crews.
When officers arrived on scene, they found Knuckles unresponsive inside the car. First responders immediately began administering aid before transporting him to St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Despite efforts by medical staff, he was pronounced dead a short time later.
Traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted as police closed off sections of Broad and Elm streets to investigate the scene and safely remove the damaged vehicle. Detectives from the Bridgeport Police Department’s Traffic Division are leading the investigation to determine what caused the crash. Authorities have not said whether they suspect a medical emergency or other factors may have played a role.
Knuckles’ death has left friends and family mourning the loss of a longtime community member. Residents who live near the intersection noted the sudden and tragic nature of the crash, with some expressing concerns about the challenges of navigating heavy traffic in that part of the city.
Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact the Bridgeport Police Traffic Division at 203-576-TIPS.
As the investigation continues, officials have reminded drivers to remain alert and cautious on city streets, particularly in high-traffic downtown areas where both vehicles and pedestrians share limited space.
