Community Corner

Bethel Patch's Most-Read Stories of 2013

The five stories you the readers clicked on the most in 2013.

As we look back on 2013 and forward into 2014, Bethel Patch went through the numbers to look at the top five most-read stories from the year.

Last year, the readers clicked the most on breaking news of two fatal accidents and the passing of a popular Bethel High School freshman.

Two votes —  the Municipal Elections and a referendum on a proposal to sell the town’s water systems — round out 2013’s most-read.

Fatal Accident on I-84


Readers from across Greater Danbury clicked on this story to find out why traffic was at a standstill on I-84 one August afternoon.

The traffic problems were caused by a 52-year-old man who apparently walked out onto the highway and was struck by a passing tractor-trailer. The death was later determined to be a suicide.

Weston Biker Killed in Accident


Another tragic accident in October took the life of Weston cyclist Thomas Steinert-Threlkeld after his bike was struck by a passing car, causing him to fall and later be pinned beneath another vehicle.

Bethel police investigated the incident, identified the vehicle that first struck Steinert-Threlkeld and later charged the driver, Alexander Scott Lee, with misconduct with a motor vehicle and evading responsibility.

Bethel High Freshman Passes at 14


The third most-clicked-on story of 2013 was an obituary for a beloved young Bethelite, Thomas Fritch.

While Fritch’s passing was a true tragedy in the community — everyone who knew him loved him dearly — his last wish was a gift back to that same community.

Fritch asked the Make-a-Wish Foundation to create a mural for the Bethel Middle School media center, where he enjoyed spending his time.

2013 Municipal Elections


This year’s election cycle was closely followed by many in Bethel, as evidenced by the number of clicks when the results came in.

Incumbents won big on Election Night, with only a few new members to swear in to the boards and commissions.

Voters Reject Aquarion Sale


The final most-read story of 2013 was the failed proposal from Aquarion Water Co. to buy the town’s water systems.

The proposal was put to Bethel voters at referendum and failed by a wide margin, 1,774-693.

Since the failed referendum, Bethel has begun planning renovations to the aging infrastructure.


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