Crime & Safety

Update: Toddler Who Died From Fall Was In Grandfather's Care

Branford Police reported that a 2 1/2 year old child fell from construction equipment August 6, succumbing to life-threatening injuries to his head and face.

 

Update: The toddler involved in a fatal fall from a bulldozer Monday has been identified as Keanu Ferrucci, according to a New Haven Register report.

The state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reportedly has determined the boy died from a blunt traumatic head injury.

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The accident occurred at the Branford home of Ralph Mauro, former East Haven Assistant Director of Town Affairs, who is the boy's grandfather.

Branford Police told Patch earlier today the investigation remains open and ongoing.

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Earlier report: The Mauro families of Branford and East Haven lost their 2 ½- year-old child after he fell from construction equipment at 172 Laurel Hill Rd., Branford.

Police Captain Geoffrey Morgan confirmed that "the child fall victim has succumbed to his injuries." The child was transported to Yale-New Haven Hospital.

On August 7, police tape, which circled the scene of the home last night was mostly removed– construction equipment sat next to the home in an empty lot. The Mauro familiy owns several new homes and building lots in the area. 

On August 6 around 5:30 p.m. members of the and s arrived at 172 Laurel Hill Rd., on the report of a child fall victim according to a statement issued by police.

“When units arrived, Fire Department paramedics immediately treated and transported the male child to a area medical facility with life-threatening injuries to the head and face,” the statement read.

“Police detectives are in the process of piecing together information and evidence of what exactly transpired when the child fell from the equipment,” Police stated. Adding that the child was “apparently in the presence of his grandfather,” at the time of the incident. The owner of the home on Laurel Hill Road off of Brushy Plain Road in Branford is Ralph Mauro, former East Haven Assistant Director of Town Affairs.

Police Chief Kevin Halloran said that the accident scene was very emotionally charged when units arrived. “When these types of calls for service occur, emotions run high not only for the family, but for first responders who attempt to provide the very best care and subsequent investigation for their loved one.” said Chief Halloran.

Branford Fire Chief Jack Ahern was away at the time of the incident; Deputy Fire Chief Ron Mullen was in charge of the scene. Mullen said Branford Fire sent three ambulances to the scene to transport the victim as well as family members who endured emotional trauma. The first responders handled the situation with extreme professionalism, said Mullen, adding, "This was one of the worst two calls of my career. I think everyone there would say the same."

Mullen noted that all first responders from Engine 1 and Rescue 2 were debriefed after the incident and offered the option to go home to be with their families. Service of a critical stress counselor was also offered to the first responders, said Mullen. 

Police say the investigation remains open as detectives evaluate evidence and information collected from the scene last night.

The following press release from Branford Police Department posted Aug. 6, 2012 at 8:30 p.m.

Members of the and s responded to 172 Laurel Hill Road today just after 5:30 p.m. after a E-911 call was received indicating that a two and a half (2 1/2) year old child was injured in a fall from construction equipment.

When units arrived, Fire Department paramedics immediately treated and transported the male child to a area medical facility with life threatening injuries to the head and face.

Police detectives are in the process of piecing together information and evidence of what exactly transpired when the child fell from the equipment, apparently in the presence of his grandfather.

Chief Kevin Halloran said that the accident scene was very emotionally charged when units arrived. “When these types of calls for service occur, emotions run high not only for the family, but for first responders who attempt to provide the very best care and subsequent investigation for their loved one.” said Chief Halloran. 

More information may be released as the investigation continues.


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