Studentdrivercrashes minivan through Manchester building, police say

Aug. 11—The Ford Windstar "was found to have driven into the front of an unoccupied unit of the building," Shea said. "The vehicle subsequently drove through the empty space inside the building and through the rear concrete wall, coming to rest outside of the rear of building."

The location was formerly home to a Hancock Fabrics store and bordered an Ocean State Job Lot. A large, jagged hole was visible in the back wall where the minivan had exited.

The 16-year-old driver and his passenger, a 73-year-old man, both East Hartford residents, suffered minor injuries, according to Shea. Initial reports indicated the 16-year-old boy was learning how to drive under the direction of the 73-year-old man and the crash occurred when the teen lost control of the minivan, Shea said.

In addition to the Manchester Police Department, Manchester Fire Rescue EMS, the Manchester fire marshal's office and the Manchester Building Department responded to the scene, according to Shea. Due to potential damage to the building's electrical supply, Shea said, Eversource was also called out.

The minivan sustained significant front-end damage as a result of the crash and was towed from the scene. Photos showed the windshield had been shattered and the hood dislodged.

—

1976 U.S. women's basketball, SCSU stars inducted in Hall of Fame

—

Windsor Locks Board of Selectmen members running unopposed