Uxbridge, Massachusetts (January 7, 2026) — An early-morning crash on Route 146 claimed the life of Uxbridge Police Officer Stephen LaPorta, 43, who was killed while on duty assisting a motorist along the northbound side of the highway, according to local officials and Massachusetts State Police.
Incident Details: The collision occurred at approximately 12:40 a.m. on the northbound lanes of Route 146. Authorities said Officer LaPorta was outside his police cruiser helping a motorist when the crash occurred. Emergency responders rushed to the scene and attempted lifesaving measures, but LaPorta was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the crash, a solemn procession of police cruisers escorted LaPorta’s body from the roadway. Black bunting was placed outside the Uxbridge Police Department as community members and law enforcement agencies from across the region gathered to mourn the loss. Uxbridge Police Chief Marc Montminy described LaPorta’s death as a devastating loss for both the department and the community.
Support poured in from neighboring communities, including from families of fellow officers. One police spouse who brought food and flowers to the department described the loss as deeply personal, underscoring the ever-present risk faced by officers who work roadside incidents late at night.
Officials have not released details regarding the vehicle involved in the collision or whether the motorist LaPorta was assisting was injured.
Investigation: The Massachusetts State Police, with assistance from the Uxbridge Police Department, are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. In incidents involving officers struck while conducting roadside duties, investigators typically focus on traffic flow, vehicle speed, and whether approaching drivers had adequate warning and time to react.
Investigators will examine the police cruiser’s position, emergency lights, and traffic control at the crash scene. They will analyze debris, tire marks, and vehicle damage to reconstruct the collision. Since it happened shortly after midnight, they will assess lighting, visibility, fatigue, and distraction. Highway design, shoulder width, and sightlines on Route 146 will also be reviewed to see if environmental factors contributed. These cases often require detailed reconstruction to understand how a routine roadside call turned deadly.
Legal Considerations: Roadside crashes involving law enforcement officers raise serious concerns regarding safety and accountability. Officers assisting stranded motorists are among the most vulnerable individuals on the roadway, particularly during nighttime hours when visibility is limited, and traffic speeds remain high.
From a civil standpoint, determining liability may involve evaluating whether the approaching driver exercised reasonable care, complied with move-over laws, and adjusted driving behavior upon encountering an emergency scene. Many states, including Massachusetts, have laws requiring drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles stopped on the roadside.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, LaPorta’s surviving loved ones may consider pursuing wrongful death claims to address funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the profound emotional impact of losing a spouse, parent, and colleague in the line of duty. Accountability can play an important role in honoring a life dedicated to service and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and fellow officers of Stephen LaPorta, and to the entire Uxbridge community as they grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Source: WCVB Boston