Tragedy Strikes Waterbury: Four Lives Lost in Early Morning Crash Waterbury, Connecticut – April 24, 2025.

Tragedy Strikes Waterbury: Four Lives Lost in Early Morning Crash
Waterbury, Connecticut – April 24, 2025

In a heartbreaking turn of events, the city of Waterbury is mourning the tragic loss of four young lives following a devastating crash in the early hours of Thursday, April 24, 2025. The incident unfolded on Cherry Street, when a BMW sedan lost control and violently collided with Hernandez Market, a local corner store located at 45 Cherry Street.

The crash, which occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m., was so severe that it caused a partial collapse of the store’s structure, leaving a scene of twisted metal, shattered glass, and unimaginable sorrow. First responders rushed to the site, but despite their efforts, the impact was fatal for all four individuals inside the vehicle.

The Waterbury Police Department has identified the victims as:

• Nelson Torres, 25

• Kayden Torres, 20

• Noel Torres, 15

• Jonathan Puszka, 20

Three of the victims—Nelson, Kayden, and Noel Torres—were siblings, members of a tight-knit family deeply rooted in the Waterbury community. The fourth victim, Jonathan Puszka, was a close family friend, described by those who knew him as kind, energetic, and full of life. The loss of these four young men has sent shockwaves through Waterbury, leaving friends, family, and neighbors reeling in grief.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that the vehicle may have been traveling at a high rate of speed when the driver lost control. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed, and structural engineers have been called in to assess the safety of the damaged building.

Hernandez Market, a longtime fixture of the neighborhood, was closed at the time of the crash. Fortunately, no one inside the store or on the street was injured, though the owners, like many in the community, are devastated by the tragic circumstances and the loss of life that unfolded just outside their doors.

In the wake of the tragedy, a makeshift memorial of candles, flowers, and handwritten notes has begun to take shape on the sidewalk near the crash site. Community members have gathered to mourn, pray, and comfort one another, united by shared sorrow and a collective commitment to honoring the lives lost.

Family members of the victims have asked for privacy as they process this unimaginable loss. Plans for a joint memorial service are underway, and details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.

Mayor Neil O’Leary released a statement Thursday afternoon, saying, “Today, Waterbury grieves. These were young lives with bright futures, loved by many. Our hearts are with the families and friends of the victims, and we stand together in support as a city.”

As Waterbury grapples with this tragedy, the community has begun to rally around the affected families, offering support through meal trains, donations, and countless acts of kindness. The pain is profound, but so too is the love being shown in every corner of the city.

This terrible loss serves as a solemn reminder of how fragile life can be. As the investigation continues, and as loved ones prepare to say goodbye far too soon, the memory of Nelson, Kayden, Noel, and Jonathan will live on in the hearts of those they touched—with love, laughter, and a bond that even tragedy cannot break.