Westport, CT — September 11, 2024, Maximilien Harper was killed as the result of a dump truck accident at around 3:19 p.m. on Old Hill Road.

Authorities said in preliminary statements that the accident happened near the intersection of Old Hill Road and Patrick Road.

According to officials, 18-year-old Maximilien Harper was on a dirt bike going southbound along Old Hill Road. While rounding a curve, the bike was hit by a dump truck which was going northbound. As a result, Harper was killed. The truck ended up crashing off-road, injuring the truck driver.

Right now, details about the accident remain unconfirmed.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Looking at this road, though, a concern comes to mind. Most recent images I can find show an incredibly narrow roadway surrounded by trees. A dump truck would no doubt take up a lot of room, and it would take incredible care and precision to safely navigate the curves and turns without obstructing oncoming traffic. Was the truck involved here too big for this roadway? Are large trucks allowed on this road? Would proper signage or improvements to the roadway have helped to prevent this accident?

To be clear, these are just some questions I bring up only because they're not typical factors like speeding or distraction that most people tend to consider. Considering a young man lost his life, investigations need to be able to consider even less likely possible factors. Whether that uncovers details suggesting there needs to be accountability here or if a clear explanation provides just much needed closure, gathering as much evidence as possible is often the most prudent step forward following any fatal truck wreck.