Pat LaFortune dies in fatal Highway 12 crash in Santa Rosa
Pat LaFortune dies in fatal Highway 12 crash in Santa Rosa
Fatal Highway 12 crash in Santa Rosa claims the life of Pat LaFortune – Obituary
Santa Rosa is mourning the death of Pat LaFortune, a cherished teacher and coach, who tragically lost his life in a 12-vehicle collision on Highway 12. LaFortune, 78, was identified by his family and friends on Friday.
His wife of 34 years, Noel LaFortune, revealed that Pat was returning from a swimming session when the accident occurred. Having retired in 2019 from Cardinal Newman High School in Santa Rosa, LaFortune had a distinguished career teaching subjects including science, math, physical education, and social studies. History was his specialty, and he served as the department chair for several years. Additionally, he was a coach for baseball and football and also taught driver’s education.
According to Noel, Pat served as an Army medic during the Vietnam War and was a father of three and grandfather to 12. He dedicated over 50 years to education, with 46 of those years spent at Cardinal Newman. Graham Rutherford, a close friend and former principal of the school, noted that LaFortune’s tenure at Cardinal Newman was the longest in the school’s history. Rutherford recalled how LaFortune helped develop the school’s cross-country team and coached track for many years, leaving his mark with his name featured on the track and press box.
The tragic accident occurred just before noon at the intersection of Fulton Road and Highway 12. Santa Rosa Fire Department responded to the scene, finding 11 vehicles involved, including a pickup truck engulfed in flames, whose driver was identified as LaFortune. The crash also left eight others injured, with three sustaining severe injuries.
As the investigation continues, the Cardinal Newman community is honoring LaFortune’s legacy with his photograph displayed in the school’s main office. Noel LaFortune expressed her shock and gratitude to the first responders who assisted at the scene. There are no updates yet regarding a memorial service.
Pat LaFortune dies in fatal Highway 12 crash in Santa Rosa Fatal Highway 12 crash in Santa Rosa claims the life of Pat LaFortune – Obituary Santa Rosa is mourning the death of Pat LaFortune, a cherished teacher and coach, who tragically lost his life in a 12-vehicle collision on Highway 12. LaFortune, 78, was…
Pat LaFortune dies in fatal Highway 12 crash in Santa Rosa Fatal Highway 12 crash in Santa Rosa claims the life of Pat LaFortune – Obituary Santa Rosa is mourning the death of Pat LaFortune, a cherished teacher and coach, who tragically lost his life in a 12-vehicle collision on Highway 12. LaFortune, 78, was…