Police Say East Haven Man Who Died in E-Bike Crash May Have Been Trying to Protect Others
Last Updated on August 19, 2025 by Kristina
On August 13, 2025, the community of East Haven was shaken by the sudden loss of Frederic W. Sternberg Jr., a 65-year-old husband, brother, and retired worker at Autopart International.
Sternberg’s life ended in a tragic e-bike crash near Mill Street and Foxon Road (Route 80), a reminder of both the promise and the peril of the growing e-bike movement in Connecticut.
What Happened That Afternoon
At about 3:25 p.m., East Haven police responded to reports of an unresponsive man near the roadside. Medics performed CPR and transported Sternberg to Yale New Haven Hospital, but he died from his injuries.
Police reviewed surveillance footage from the area. It showed Sternberg stopping his e-bike to pick up a two-by-four lying in the roadway. After securing the board, he tried to continue riding north while carrying it. Moments later, he lost balance, fell from the bike, and tumbled down an embankment, sustaining severe injuries.
Captain Joseph Murgo, spokesperson for the East Haven Police Department, emphasized that “no other vehicles or individuals were involved in this unfortunate accident”. He expressed condolences on behalf of the department, noting the deep sadness felt by the community.
It is not known whether Sternberg stopped to clear the board in order to protect others from harm. Police cannot confirm his intention, though many see his actions as selfless.
Remembering Frederic Sternberg
Sternberg was born in New Haven and built his career at Autopart International before retirement. Friends and neighbors describe him as kind and helpful. His obituary notes that he is survived by his wife, Denise Cassan Sternberg, and his sister, Eileen Sternberg of Meriden.
The family held private funeral arrangements, choosing to grieve outside the public eye. Yet, for many in East Haven, his death feels personal. He was a familiar face, a neighbor, and someone remembered for caring about others.
A Growing Concern: E-Bike Safety
The day after Sternberg’s passing, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, DOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto, and Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger held a press conference to address bicycle safety in Connecticut. They warned residents of the dangers of riding and the need for drivers to share the road responsibly.
Their timing was poignant. Sternberg’s death highlighted the fragile balance between opportunity and risk in the age of electric bikes.
E-bikes have grown rapidly in popularity. National data shows sales more than tripled between 2019 and 2022, with more than 1 million units sold annually in the U.S. But with this growth has come more injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, emergency room visits linked to e-bikes rose by over 70% between 2017 and 2022.
The Legal Gray Area
In Connecticut, e-bikes exist in a legal gray area.
- Some e-bikes can be modified to reach speeds of up to 70 mph—faster than many gas-powered mopeds.
- Despite this, they do not require registration, insurance, or a special license.
- Riders share the road with cars, trucks, pedestrians, and bicycles, often without clear guidelines on where and how they should operate.
This lack of regulation creates confusion, not just for riders but for law enforcement and the broader community.
Lessons from a Tragedy
Sternberg’s accident underscores a few key lessons:
- E-bikes are powerful: They demand the same caution and respect as a motor vehicle.
- Road safety is shared: Cyclists, drivers, and pedestrians must all remain vigilant.
- Protect yourself first: Dismount before clearing debris or carrying large items on a bike.
- Communities need clear rules: Local and state governments must close the gaps in regulation.
Moving Forward Together
Frederic W. Sternberg Jr. did not expect that day’s ride to be his last. He stopped, perhaps to protect others from a hazard in the road. His death is a loss not only to his family but to the wider East Haven community.
The best way to honor his memory is by making the roads safer—for riders, for drivers, and for everyone in between. That means better infrastructure, clearer regulations, and more personal responsibility on every trip.
Each ride, each commute, and each small decision matters. And each one should begin with the same thought: get home safely.
For more news on electric bikes click here
You May Also Like
Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
