Decorated Connecticut Police Officer Killed on Vacation Breaking Up Fight

Tragic news to report as a member of the South Windsor Police Department passed away as the result of an injury he sustained while reportedly breaking up a fight.

According to a social media post from the South Windsor Police Department, 41-year-old Matthew Mainieri was off-duty and vacationing near Myrtle Beach in South Carolina on Sunday (September 2) and was just trying to help.

Reports say that while attempting to break up the bar fight, Officer Mainieri suffered a blow to the head that ultimately caused his demise.

The Georgetown County Sheriff's Department says they arrested 21-year-old Kelton Jess Todd of Aynor, SC, charging him with assault if a high and aggravated nature. He was release on $35,000 bail. More charges may be coming for Todd as the investigation continues.

As a 20-year veteran of the South Windsor PD, Officer Mainieri was highly decorated, including having been awarded the department's Medal of Valor and the Chief's Award among many other accolades. He's served as Corporal and Sergeant in various divisions, namely the traffic division as well as the detective division.

Read more local stories:

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• Bethel Woman Hits Powerball From Greenwood Ave. Car Wash
• Why Is This Neat CT Neighborhood with Dozens of Homes Abandoned?

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