Heartbreaking : Staples High School Senior Maximilien Harper Killed in Tragic Dirt Bike Crash with Dump Truck

WESTPORT, CT — Maximilien Harper, an 18-year-old resident of Westport, lost his life in an tragic accident that happened Wednesday afternoon. According to Westport police, his dirt bike and a fully loaded dump truck collided on Old Hill Road.

Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas stated that Harper was pronounced deceased at the scene following the 3:15 p.m. accident. Harper, who was heading southbound, encountered the northbound dump truck at a precarious bend in the road just south of Partrick Road. It was during the attempt to navigate the sharp corner that the vehicles collided.

Chief Koskinas expressed the deep sorrow felt by the department, sharing that they extend their heartfelt condolences to the Harper family and the community at large during this painful time.

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Superintendent Thomas Scarice of Westport Public Schools shared further somber news in a letter addressed to the school system community, confirming that Harper was a senior at Staples High School. In light of this devastating loss, the school will operate on a two-hour delay Thursday, with all athletic events suspended. Grief counselors will also be made available to students coping with the sudden tragedy.

“This loss strikes deeply at the heart of our school and wider community,” Scarice conveyed in his letter. “I am certain that many among us, particularly our students, will feel the profound impact in the days ahead.” Scarice’s complete letter follows below.

In an effort to avoid the crash, the dump truck operator, whose identity remains undisclosed, swerved off the road and collided with several trees. The truck ultimately overturned, scattering its contents. The operator was transported to a local hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening.

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The Westport Police Detective Bureau, in conjunction with the Accident Investigation Team and assistance from Fairfield’s Police Accident Investigation Team, continues to investigate the crash. In the wake of the accident, Old Hill Road was closed between Partrick and Broadview roads to allow for a thorough investigation.