Driver who caused Stamford motorcycle crash faces charges, possible civil action

STAMFORD, Conn. — Stamford police arrested a 58-year-old local man Friday in connection with a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred earlier this year. Hector Rolando Lemus-Portillo turned himself in at Stamford Police Headquarters following the issuance of an arrest warrant for charges including negligent homicide with a motor vehicle and failure to yield while making a left turn.

The charges stem from an accident on May 17, 2024, when a 17-year-old motorcyclist was killed after colliding with Lemus-Portillo’s vehicle at the intersection of Lockwood Avenue and William Street. According to the Stamford Police Department’s Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Squad, Lemus-Portillo was driving a 2011 Toyota Corolla southbound on Lockwood Avenue and attempted to turn left at the intersection, crossing into the path of a 2020 Kawasaki motorcycle in north direction.

The motorcyclist, a Stamford resident whose identity has not been released due to his age, attempted to stop but was unable to avoid the collision. He was transported to Stamford Hospital, where medical staff attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as multiple blunt force trauma resulting from the crash.

Sergeant Ryan McAllister and Officer Lindsey Yanicky led the investigation, which determined that Lemus-Portillo’s inability to yield was the primary cause of the accident. Police applied for an arrest warrant, which was granted by Stamford Superior Court (GA-1). Lemus-Portillo, who remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators, was released on $60,000 bond after turning himself in. His court appearance is scheduled for November 8, 2024.

A charge of negligent homicide carries serious legal consequences, including possible criminal penalties such as fines or jail time if convicted. In addition to criminal liability, Lemus-Portillo could also face civil lawsuits filed by the victim’s family for wrongful death or damages, which could lead to significant financial compensation claims. In addition, legal defense costs can be significant, as defending against criminal charges and potential civil actions often involves hiring attorneys who specialize in both criminal defense and civil lawsuits, further increasing the financial burden on the suspect.

Find a personal injury attorney in the Stamford area

Stamford, Connecticut, is home to several highly regarded personal injury attorneys known for their expertise in representing clients facing complex legal challenges. Among them is Michael J. Colavecchio of Ventura Law, who has extensive experience handling serious motor vehicle accidents and a reputation for dedicated client advocacy. Richard P. Hastingsa partner at Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP, is another top name in the region, widely recognized for his work in personal injury claims and writing several legal books on personal injury law. Eric D. Reinken van Reinken Law Firm is known for its client-centered approach and successful track record in obtaining settlements for car accidents and other personal injury cases. Stefan Reck of The Law Firm of Stephen M. Reck and Scott D. Camassar, LLC, is respected for his aggressive representation of clients in medical malpractice and wrongful death cases. Finally, Andrew P. Garzaco-founder of the Connecticut Trial Firm, is known for his results-oriented representation and his commitment to ensuring justice for those harmed by negligence. These attorneys have built a strong reputation in Stamford for their dedication to fighting for their clients’ rights and achieving favorable outcomes.