GRISWOLD, CT. (THECOUNT) — A 2025 fatal two-vehicle crash in Griswold, Connecticut, located in New London County within the Norwich–New London metropolitan area, that resulted in the death of young mother of twins, Alexis Ann Newcomb of Ashburnham, Massachusetts. Birenkumar Arvindbhai Patel, AKA, Biren Patel, of Jewett City, Connecticut, has been charged in connection with the crash. The collision also involved Newcomb’s husband, who sustained minor injuries.
The couple was driving home to celebrate her 21st birthday.
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The crash occurred at approximately 3 p.m. on September 28, 2025, on Preston Road. Connecticut State Police reported that Patel was driving a gray Tesla southbound when his vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with a northbound white Tesla.
Newcomb was a front-seat passenger in the northbound vehicle driven by her husband. She sustained severe injuries and was transported to Backus Hospital in Norwich, Connecticut, where she later died. Her husband suffered minor injuries.
Authorities said the couple was returning home after celebrating Newcomb’s 21st birthday. Investigators also confirmed Newcomb was a new mother and left behind 3-month-old twin infants.
Patel was initially arrested for operating under the influence shortly after the crash. When transported to Backus Hospital for further testing, he failed to comply with instructions and refused portions of the evaluation. Toxicology testing later showed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.30, nearly four times the legal limit of 0.08 in Connecticut.
Connecticut State Police stated that evidence, including witness accounts and dashcam footage, indicates Patel’s vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic, causing the collision. He is currently being held on a $500,000 bond in connection with the charges.
He faces charges including manslaughter, operating under the influence, reckless driving and more, according to Connecticut State Police.
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