UPS driver dies after assault; police seek co-worker

WATERTOWN, Conn. (AP) — A UPS truck driver died after an assault in Connecticut, and authorities were searching Wednesday for a suspect identified as his co-worker.

The victim and the suspect apparently were riding in the same vehicle before the assault Tuesday evening but the motive is unknown, Connecticut State Police Trooper Joseu Dorelus said at a news conference. A weapon was recovered at the scene, he said.

Authorities are searching for Elijah David Bertrand, 19. Dorelus said he is considered dangerous and urged anybody who knows his whereabouts to contact police.

“If you see this individual we’re asking you to avoid making contact,” Dorelus said.

State troopers initially responded to a call about an accident involving a UPS truck in Watertown on Tuesday evening. They found the driver had been assaulted, and medics took him to a hospital, where he died.

Connecticut State Police did not identify the driver. The nature of his injuries wasn’t clear. An autopsy was to determine the cause and manner of death.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague, and are cooperating with the investigation,” UPS spokesperson Matthew O’Connor said.