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Police said 53-year-old Henryk Gudelski, a much-decorated runner, was struck by a car in Hartford County in the area of Belden Street and East Street in New Britain. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Gudelski was hit by a stolen Audi out of Hartford while he was running on the sidewalk; he was hit so hard he flew across the street. The driver of the stolen vehicle fled the scene, leaving Gudelski lying in the street, said Chief Christopher Chute.
According to Chute, the incident began about six miles away at a gas station in Plainville where he said two people inside the Audi stole a wallet out of someone’s car. The man then tried to chase down the Audi even though he was told by police to wait until they arrived on the scene.
On Wednesday, June 30, the driver of the Audi, was identified as a 17-year-old New Britain resident and he was arrested at his home where they found him hiding in a closet, the chief said.
The unidentified teen was charged with assault, reckless driving, and larceny.
Chute said the teen has been arrested 13 times in the last three and a half years for assault with a knife, assault, possession of drugs, reckless driving, larceny (Stolen Motor Vehicles), robbery, and violation of probation.
"The New Britain Police Department is thankful for all the tips received that led to the identification of the accused," Chute said.
This investigation remains open and the department is currently looking for the second occupant of the stolen vehicle.
"This is a senseless tragedy," he added. "Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of the deceased."
Friends of Gudelski have started a GoFundMe for his funeral expenses.
"Henryk’s killer ran away from the accident on foot, leaving Henryk to die," the GoFundMe said. "This tragedy shocked his entire family and the community in New Britain. Alina, Henryk’s life partner, lost the love of her life."
They went on to say that he was also very well known in the local Polish community and a devoted Catholic.
He leaves behind two children of his own and four of Alina's, they added.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Lt. Blackmore at 860-826-3131 or call the anonymous tip line at 860-826-3199.
To donate to the GoFundMe effort click here.
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