Mansfield, CT — A 22-year-old University of Connecticut senior was killed early Wednesday after the SUV he was driving crossed into oncoming traffic and crashed into a utility pole and tree, according to Connecticut State Police.

Zachary Barry, a senior from Scarborough, Maine, was driving a 2016 Volvo XC60 west on Huntington Lodge Road shortly after midnight when the vehicle left its lane and slammed into the roadside objects.

The crash left Barry seriously injured and trapped in the wreckage. First responders pulled him from the damaged SUV before he was airlifted to Hartford Hospital for emergency treatment.

Despite efforts to save him, Barry died at 2:43 a.m., police said.

Authorities were alerted to the crash after a crash detection alert from a mobile device notified emergency responders, according to the Daily Voice.

Barry was reportedly alone in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Barry was nearing the end of his UConn education

Barry had been enrolled at the University of Connecticut since 2022 and was studying plant science with a concentration in turfgrass, according to information provided by school officials to the Hartford Courant.

His academic interests were closely connected to his professional goals.

During the past summer, Barry worked as an intern at Pine Valley Golf Club in New Jersey, where he focused on developing skills involving course conditioning and turf health management.

The university’s Dean of Students Office highlighted that experience in a campus-wide message following his death.

The loss came as Barry was continuing his senior year and preparing to complete his college education.

Former track star remembered at UConn

Before becoming known for his academic work and involvement on campus, Barry had already established himself as a successful athlete.

He competed for UConn’s men’s track and field team from 2022 through 2024 and was also a dedicated member of the Alpha Kappa Lambda fraternity, according to the school.

His accomplishments began well before college.

According to WMTW, Barry won the 800-meter state championship as a high school junior. During his senior year, he went on to sweep the 800-meter, 1600-meter and mile titles, further establishing himself as a standout distance runner.

His athletic background, academic interests and involvement in campus life made him a familiar presence within the UConn community.

UConn community mourns 22-year-old senior

Following Barry’s death, UConn officials expressed condolences to his family and friends.

In a message shared with the campus community, university officials wrote, “Our deepest condolences go out to Zachary’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

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The university also reminded grieving students and staff that support was available through Student Health & Wellness Mental Health Services.

Students seeking assistance can contact the mental health services office at 860-486-4700 or visit the office in person for support.

For classmates and friends who knew Barry, the crash marked a sudden and tragic loss of a student who had been building both an academic and professional future.

Police continue investigating the fatal crash

Connecticut State Police are continuing to investigate what caused Barry’s Volvo to cross into oncoming traffic and leave the roadway.

At this stage, authorities have not publicly provided a definitive explanation for why the crash occurred. Anyone who may have information about the incident is being asked to contact Trooper Kyle Tiersch at 860-896-3200 or by email at [email protected].

As investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash, the UConn community continues to mourn Barry’s death and remember the 22-year-old senior for his achievements both on the track and in his studies.

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