BEACON FALLS, Conn — A 23-year-old driver died early Saturday morning after crashing on Route 8 North in Beacon Falls. The accident happened at about 6:54 a.m. on September 27, 2025, near the #21 entrance.

State Police said the driver, identified as Matthew Nichola Champagne from Waterbury, lost control of his car while driving in the left lane. The 1998 Honda Civic spun out, went off the road, hit sand-filled barriers and rolled over.

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and next of kin has been notified, according to State Police.

Before the crash, the car had been reported stolen to Waterbury Police. "We’re still investigating and asking anyone who saw the crash or has dashcam footage to contact us," said Trooper Alec DeRosa, who is leading the investigation.

The crash caused

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