UXBRIDGE, Mass. — A Uxbridge police officer was killed in the line of duty early Wednesday morning after a tragic traffic crash on an icy roadway, authorities confirmed. Officer Stephen LaPorta, 43, lost his life while performing his duties and was pronounced dead at the scene despite immediate lifesaving efforts. His death has sent shockwaves through the Uxbridge community and law enforcement agencies across the state.
The fatal crash occurred around 12:40 a.m. on January 7 as Officer LaPorta was assisting a motorist along a hazardous stretch of road. Authorities said weather conditions were extremely dangerous at the time, with icy surfaces making travel treacherous. Police radio traffic throughout the night described roads as “like an ice rink,” with several responding cruisers reportedly sliding while en route to other crashes caused by the severe conditions.
Officials said Officer LaPorta was actively helping a stranded driver when the deadly collision occurred. Details about the exact sequence of events leading up to the crash have not yet been released. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but LaPorta’s injuries proved fatal, and he was pronounced dead at the location.
Officer LaPorta had joined the Uxbridge Police Department as a full-time officer in June 2024, but he brought more than a decade of experience in public safety to the role. Colleagues described him as dedicated, professional, and deeply committed to serving and protecting others, qualities that were evident as he worked to help a motorist during dangerous weather conditions.
Uxbridge Police Chief Marc Montminy released a statement expressing profound grief over the loss, calling it a heartbreaking moment for the department and the town. He extended condolences to LaPorta’s family, friends, and fellow officers, noting that the department is mourning the loss of a colleague who died while serving his community.
In a show of respect, a solemn police escort accompanied Officer LaPorta’s body from the crash site. The Uxbridge Police Department lowered its flags to half-staff and placed black bunting across the station entrance in his honor. The Massachusetts State Police have assumed control of the investigation, and a portion of Route 145 remained closed for several hours Wednesday morning as investigators worked to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
