Tragedy Strikes Waterbury as Four Young Lives are Lost in Early Morning Crash on Cherry Street, Leading to the Partial Collapse of Hernandez Market

Waterbury, CT – In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has left the community of Waterbury in mourning, four lives were lost in a devastating crash early Thursday morning, April 24, 2025. The incident, which occurred just after dawn, involved a BMW sedan that lost control and crashed into Hernandez Market on Cherry Street, a beloved corner store located at 45 Cherry Street. The collision caused significant damage to the building, including a partial collapse of its structure.

The victims, who were inside the BMW at the time of the crash, were all tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Their loss has left a gaping hole in the hearts of their families and the community, which is still reeling from the magnitude of the tragedy.

The Horrific Crash

The crash occurred around 5:30 a.m., just as the streets of Waterbury were beginning to stir with the quiet hum of early morning activity. According to the Waterbury Police Department, the BMW sedan was traveling at a high rate of speed when it suddenly lost control, veering off the road and crashing into Hernandez Market. The force of the impact caused the building’s front wall to partially collapse, trapping the vehicle inside.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene within minutes but found that the crash had been catastrophic. Firefighters and paramedics worked tirelessly to extract the victims from the wreckage, but it was clear that the four individuals inside the BMW had suffered fatal injuries.

The Waterbury Fire Department confirmed that no one was inside the store at the time of the crash, as the market had not yet opened for the day. Had the crash occurred just hours later, the consequences could have been even more tragic.

Victims Identified

The Waterbury Police Department has officially identified the four victims of this horrific accident:

• Nelson Torres, 25
• Kayden Torres, 20
• Noel Torres, 15
• Jonathan Puszka, 20

The Torres family, including Nelson, Kayden, and Noel, are well-known in the Waterbury area, with their tragic deaths leaving a lasting impact on both family and friends. Jonathan Puszka, a close friend of the family, had been spending time with the Torres brothers that morning. Authorities have stated that they are still in the process of notifying the victims’ families, and grief counselors have been made available to support those affected by the incident.

Community Reacts to the Loss

News of the crash spread quickly through Waterbury, and the entire community has been left in shock. Friends, family members, and neighbors of the victims have expressed their sorrow and disbelief over the senseless loss of four young lives.

“We are all in shock. It feels unreal,” said Carlos Rivera, a longtime neighbor of the Torres family. “Nelson was always smiling, and Kayden and Noel were just kids—they didn’t deserve this.”

A community vigil has been organized by local churches and organizations to honor the lives of the victims. The vigil is expected to bring together hundreds of mourners to remember the Torres brothers and their friend, Jonathan, whose lives were tragically cut short.

The Cause of the Crash

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Waterbury police have indicated that speeding may have been a contributing factor, but they are also exploring whether mechanical failure or other circumstances played a role in the vehicle’s loss of control. The BMW sedan was registered to one of the victims, but authorities have not yet determined whether the driver had been under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash.

A toxicology report is expected to be part of the ongoing investigation. The Waterbury Police Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation.

A Long Road to Healing

The grief-stricken community of Waterbury is now grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy. Funeral arrangements for the victims are still being planned, and the family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public.

Local organizations, including the Waterbury Youth Center and various religious groups, have pledged to help the families affected by the crash, offering financial support and counseling services.

“This is a community in mourning,” said Mayor Patricia Griffin of Waterbury. “Our thoughts are with the Torres family and the loved ones of Jonathan Puszka. We will do everything we can to support them during this unimaginable time.”

A Call for Road Safety and Awareness

The crash has also raised concerns about road safety, particularly on Cherry Street, which is known for its heavy traffic in the mornings. Local officials have vowed to review the conditions on Cherry Street and explore options to improve safety measures for drivers and pedestrians alike.

“We need to make sure this never happens again,” said Councilman Richard Vargas. “We will work with local authorities to ensure that our streets are safe for everyone, especially our young people.”

As Waterbury comes together to mourn the loss of these four young lives, the community remains committed to finding ways to prevent similar tragedies in the future and support those who have been affected by this devastating crash.

Our deepest condolences go out to the Torres family, Jonathan Puszka’s loved ones, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy. May their memories live on in the hearts of everyone who knew them.

Further updates on this story will be provided as more information becomes available.