Fairfield University student dies in accident in Stratford

FAIRFIELD, CT (WFSB) – A Fairfield University student has been identified as the fourth person killed in a wrong-way crash Thursday in Stratford.

Fairfield University said Friday that Alexander Dennis, a member of the Class of 2025, had just completed his junior year and was on his way home to Massachusetts at the time.

Fairfield University said Dennis studied visual and performing arts as a student in the College of Arts and Sciences and was particularly interested in film.

“At a time of year when we are actively committed to celebrating our students and their achievements, a loss like this seems unimaginable,” said University President Mark R. Nemec PhD. “Those who knew and loved Alex will be particularly affected by his death, and his loss will be felt across campus. Our Jesuit colleagues are available to our community, as are Campus Ministry and Counseling Center staff. The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can also be a helpful resource for employees during this time.”

The school said it wants to gather as a community to celebrate Dennis’ life in the fall when students return to campus.

According to state police, the accident occurred around 1:45 a.m. Thursday on Merritt Parkway in Stratford.

Dennis was not initially identified by state police Thursday. He was the fourth person involved in the accident.

His vehicle was registered to a family member.

According to police, the fourth person was the driver who was driving in the wrong direction.

Steven Rowland, 65, Thomas Lucian Vitale, 80, and Olga Vitale, 81, all of Easton, were in the vehicle that was struck.

All four people were pronounced dead at the scene.

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