Branford Man, 54, Charged In Fatal March North Branford Crash: NBPD

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — Thursday morning, North Branford police took Dylan Ward, 54, of Branford, into custody in connection with the March 5 fatal crashat the intersection of Foxon Road and Doral Farms Road.

The victim, Diane Golia, 82, was driving one of the involved vehicles involved in the 3 p.m. crash near Doral Farms Road, succumbed to the injuries sustained in the collision.

Mr. Ward has been charged with the following:

• Manslaughter in the Second Degree
• Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence
• Operating a Motor Vehicle Under Suspension
• Failure to Drive in the Proper Lane
• Operating an Unregistered Motor Vehicle

Ward was held on a $250,000 court-set bond and was arraigned in a New Haven courtroom Thursday morning.

"Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Diane Golia, the victim in this tragic incident. We thank them for their patience and strength throughout this very difficult time," said Chief of Police James Lovelace.

"We are grateful for the tireless efforts of the North Branford Police Department’s investigative team, who have worked diligently since the incident. Their dedication to justice is a true testament to their service to our community," Lovelace said. "We also extend our sincere appreciation to our regional law enforcement partners and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office for their continued support and collaboration throughout the investigation."