Mary Claire Hartman Obituary, Death; Police: New Haven woman dies after being hit by vehicle

Mary Claire Hartman Obituary, Death – Early Saturday morning, New Haven police released further details about a tragic pedestrian accident that claimed the life of a local woman shortly after midnight. The fatal crash happened at approximately 12:02 a.m. near the intersection of Chapel Street and Temple Street in downtown New Haven, a busy area often frequented by pedestrians.

According to police reports, officers arrived at the scene to find a woman lying in the roadway with serious injuries. Emergency responders immediately provided medical assistance before transporting her to Yale-New Haven Hospital. Despite these efforts, the victim, identified as 56-year-old Mary Claire Hartman of New Haven, later died from the injuries she sustained in the crash.

Authorities confirmed that the driver of the vehicle involved in the incident remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators indicated that the vehicle had been traveling westbound on Chapel Street as it approached Temple Street. Investigators allege the driver ran a red light and struck Hartman, who was crossing Chapel Street from north to south when the collision occurred.

While no arrests were made immediately following the crash, officials indicated that charges could still be filed. Police noted that an arrest may occur at a later time if a warrant is issued after the investigation concludes. The department’s Crash Reconstruction Team was dispatched to examine the scene more closely, gathering evidence to determine exactly how the accident unfolded.

New Haven police emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and are urging members of the public to assist if they have any information about what happened. Authorities asked anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has additional evidence—such as cell phone video or dashcam footage—to come forward. Detectives can be contacted directly at 203-946-6304. For those wishing to remain anonymous, the department’s tip line is available at 866-888-8477.

The crash highlights the dangers pedestrians face in high-traffic urban areas, particularly at night. Intersections like Chapel and Temple are typically well-traveled, and officials stress the importance of both drivers and pedestrians exercising caution. Running a red light, as police suspect happened in this case, significantly increases the risk of collisions, often with deadly consequences.

Mary Claire Hartman’s death has left her community grieving. At 56, she was known locally, and her sudden passing has underscored the importance of roadway safety enforcement. The ongoing investigation will determine whether the driver faces criminal charges, but in the meantime, officials continue to seek public assistance to ensure all facts surrounding the incident are uncovered.

Police are expected to release more information once the investigation advances, particularly regarding whether the driver will be held legally responsible. For now, authorities are focused on piecing together the full sequence of events leading to the fatal crash and ensuring that justice is pursued for the victim and her loved ones.

This tragic event serves as a reminder of how a single reckless decision, such as ignoring a traffic signal, can have devastating and irreversible consequences.