Perry Polderman Killed in Motorcycle Crash Monday Evening

Published Monday 10 p.m. Updated Tuesday 10 a.m. 

Town transfer station attendant Perry Polderman was killed in a motorcycle crash in Torrington Monday evening. 

Town officials and co-workers received the news Monday evening. 

"On behalf of all our employees our deepest sympathy to his wife and family," said First Selectman Richard Barlow. 

State police said Polderman, 53, of 44 Smith St., Torrington was traveling Southbound on Route 8 near exit 46 when his motorcycle traveled off the roadway and struck the metal i-beam and wire guardrail shortly before 5 p.m. According to a state police press release, the crash caused fatal injuries and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are investigating the accident. 

Polderman's death sent shockwaves through the community. 

"Our thoughts are with his wife and family," Public Works employee Tom Richardson said Monday night. "What he's been through this past year; it's heartbreaking to everyone . .  It just doesn't make sense to anybody." 

Polderman joined the Canton Public Works Department in 2007 and eventually went to work at the transfer station with Pat Vincent. He assumed the role of transfer station attendant after Vincent retired in late 2011. Polderman also owned American Shooters, a Canton gun shop on Route 44. 

In September of 2012 he sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle accident, also in Torrington, and the town rallied around him with fundraisers and other support as he healed. 

In August, residents enthusiastically welcomed him back to the transfer station.