West Hartford Police confirmed the identity of the victim who suffered life-threatening injuries in Wednesday afternoon’s crash. [Updated, 11:10 p.m.]

By Ronni Newton

West Hartford. Police said a man who struck a tree on Wednesday afternoon had to be extricated from his vehicle was transported to the hospital with serious and life-threatening injuries. Later in the evening, police confirmed that the man, identified as Father Terry Kristofak, succumbed to his injuries.

Fr. Terry Kristofak, 85, was a priest at Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center in West Hartford. Fr. David Cinquegrani posted the following message on the Holy Family website Wednesday night.

“It is with profound sorrow that I share the heartbreaking news that our beloved Father Terry Kristofak died in a car accident this afternoon in West Hartford. Father Terry had been visiting a family and was on his way home at the time of the accident.

“We are filled with grief at the loss of such a kind, loving, and faithful friend. His presence touched the lives of so many, and his passing is a tremendous loss to our community.

“Please keep Father Terry’s family, friends, and the Passionist Community in your prayers during this difficult time. We will share information regarding funeral and memorial services as arrangements are made.

“May Father Terry rest in the loving arms of God, and may the Lord grant comfort and peace to all of us who mourn. Amen.”

Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center Facebook photo

According to Capt. Aaron Vafiades, the crash was reported at approximately 2:221 p.m. Wednesday.

Police arrived at the scene on Simsbury Road, in the area of Tumblebrook Lane, after being notified that a car that had gone into the woods, Vafiades said. The car had a single occupant, an adult male, who had to be extricated by the West Hartford Fire Department.

Police did not indicate that any other vehicles were involved, and have not yet identified the cause of the crash.

The victim, now identified as Fr. Terry Kristofak, was transported to an area hospital with injuries that police described as serious and life-threatening.

The crash is under investigation by the West Hartford Police Department’s Traffic Division.

West Hartford Police expressed their their thanks to the fire department and American Medical Rescue for assistance at the scene.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police at 860-523-5203, or via the anonymous tip line 860-570-8969 or email [email protected].

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford! Click the blue button below to become a supporter of We-Ha.com and our efforts to continue producing quality journalism.