Tragic accident

A 5-year-old boy named Cooper Villano was struck by a car near Deer Run School at 3:20 p.m. Thursday.

“I just wanted to honor little Cooper. He was just walking home from school, doing something he did every day with his family.”

Community memorial grows

A memorial along Foxon Road started with a rose and pumpkin, now includes candles and teddy bears.

Firefighters respond

Firefighters heard screams and tried to save Cooper but his injuries were too severe.

“I don’t care what amount of training you have, what amount of experience you have, or how many years you have on the job, when you see something like that, it’s certainly something that will stay with them for the rest of their lives, a very traumatic event.”

Neighbor remembers

Gina Macholl said Cooper was always laughing and smiling at the Little League field.

“I would see them down at the Little League field, part of that community down there. Watch him every day, always laughing and smiling, playing. It hits hard.”

Community support

The East Haven Academy PTO created a meal train and the school district offers support for affected students and staff.

“We just wanted to come by and show our support.”