x
Breaking News
More () »

New Britain woman hit, killed while crossing street to ‘play lottery numbers'

Sam Harris, 25, of New Britain was charged with evading responsibility involving death.

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — Sam Harris, 25, wasn’t alone facing a judge Thursday. His family, also in court, with tears in their eyes.

According to court documents, Harris, of New Britain, told authorities he left the gym after 9 p.m. Wednesday night, smoked marijuana, when, “out of nowhere his window just busted.”

Prosecutors shared a different narrative Thursday during his arraignment at New Britain Superior Court. 

“Looks like speed was a factor. Officers located the vehicle owned by this defendant had a scared windshield. Had some substance consistent with blood on the windshield,” a prosecutor said. 

First responders found Brenda Catucci, 62, lying in the middle of South Main Street in front of New Britain’s Firehouse #2. She was rushed to the hospital where she was pronounced dead. Surveillance images of a white Infinity led police to Harris’ home.

Harris’ mom reportedly told police Harris wasn’t home and was out with his girlfriend. But after officers yelled, Harris walked downstairs and was charged with evading responsibility involving death, documents state.

Harris has four additional cases pending out of court including first-degree reckless endangerment and two counts of assault on a public safety officer. He remains in custody with bail set at $1 million and is due back in court Nov. 16.

Sign up for the FOX61 newsletters: Morning Forecast, Morning Headlines, Evening Headlines

---

Have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com

---

HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS

Download the FOX61 News APP

iTunes: Click here to download

Google Play: Click here to download

Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.

Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.

FOLLOW US ON XFACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM

Before You Leave, Check This Out