Funeral arrangements have been announced for a Massachusetts police officer who was struck and killed in a crash in Uxbridge earlier this week.
Authorities said 43-year-old Stephen LaPorta, of Uxbridge, was out of his cruiser helping a motorist when he was hit by a tractor-trailer around 12:40 a.m. Wednesday. He died at the scene from his injuries.
He leaves behind a wife and a 13-year-old son.
LaPorta began his career as a dispatcher and in June 2024 fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer.
“This heartbreaking incident reminds us of the risk law enforcement officers take every day,” Uxbridge Police Chief Marc Montminy said Wednesday. “Officer LaPorta gave his life in service of the community — a sacrifice we will never forget. In our eyes, he was a hero.”
Details of LaPorta’s wake and funeral were released on Saturday.
The wake will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 14, from 2-6 p.m., at St. Mary’s Church in Franklin. The funeral will be held on Thursday, Jan. 15, at 11 a.m., also at St. Mary’s. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Uxbridge.
Law enforcement agencies from across the region are expected to attend to pay their respects and stand in solidarity with LaPorta’s family, friends and fellow officers. Members of the public who wish to honor LaPorta are being encouraged to line the procession route and attend public services. Flags will be flown at half-staff in his memory.
Marc Fortier
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