Centre District
Downtown Neighborhood
November 29, 2025
Green Illuminates for Annual Holiday Kickoff
Crowds converged on the Waterbury Green this Saturday for the city’s official Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, presided over by Mayor Paul Pernerewski Jr. The event transformed the heart of the city into a winter festival, featuring performances by the Waterbury Valley Chordsmen and the PAL Choir, alongside complimentary hot chocolate and donuts for attendees. The lighting of the tree marks the formal beginning of the holiday season for the city's businesses and families, continuing a beloved tradition in the downtown district.
Waterville District
Waterville Neighborhood
November 28, 2025
Distillery Hosts Holiday Weekend Music and Spirits
Continuum Distilling on Thomaston Avenue hosted a festive post-Thanksgiving gathering this Friday, drawing residents to the Waterville neighborhood for an evening of local culture. The event featured live music by local artist Peter Benson and a "Happy Hour" collaboration with Brass Works Brewing, highlighting the growing craft beverage hub in the district. The gathering provided a community space for locals to unwind after the holiday, with food trucks and signature spirits showcasing the adaptive reuse of the area's industrial spaces.
Out East
East End Neighborhood
November 27, 2025
Kennedy Eagles Claim Victory Over Crosby in Turkey Bowl
The Kennedy High School Eagles celebrated Thanksgiving morning with a hard-fought win over their rivals, the Crosby High School Bulldogs, at the Crosby athletic complex on Pierpont Road. In a game that drew spirited crowds despite the holiday chill, Kennedy’s offense executed key plays in the second half to pull away for a 26-12 victory. The win marks a satisfying conclusion to the Eagles' season and secures bragging rights in the East End for another year.
Saw Mill District
Bunker Hill Neighborhood
November 25, 2025
Spartans Shut Out Wildcats in Municipal Stadium Rout
The Waterbury Career Academy (WCA) football team delivered a commanding performance against Wilby High School this Tuesday evening at Municipal Stadium on Watertown Avenue. In a game that showcased their defensive dominance, the Spartans shut down the Wildcats' offense entirely, securing a decisive 40-0 victory. The win propels WCA with strong momentum as they close out their regular season, while Wilby struggled to find any rhythm against the Spartans' aggressive defensive line in the cold late-November air.
Saw Mill District
Wolcott Road Neighborhood
November 29–30, 2025
Annual Holiday Toy Drive at Walmart
The Jack Paul Noujaim Community Foundation will conduct its annual Holiday Toy Drive at the Walmart in Waterbury on November 29 and 30. The event encourages local donations to provide toys for children in need throughout the city during the holiday period.
Citywide
Multiple Neighborhoods
November 22, 2025
Public Works is Hiring
Additionally, the city is hiring for a Maintainer I position within Public Works, providing job opportunities for local applicants interested in municipal service roles. These initiatives aim to maintain city cleanliness and support workforce development.
Centre District
Histori Hillside Neighborhood
November 20, 2025
Couple Charged With Animal Cruelty After Animal Remains Found
A couple was charged with animal cruelty on November 20, 2025, in the Hillside District after authorities discovered the remains of twenty-one cats and dogs in a trailer. Waterbury police responded to reports of neglect, resulting in swift investigative and legal action. Animal welfare advocates and residents have expressed concern and called for renewed vigilance regarding domestic animal care throughout the city.
North End District
North End Neighborhood
November 20, 2025
Waterbury Men Arrested in Major Drug and Firearm Seizure
On November 20, 2025, Waterbury police arrested two men in the North End following the discovery of pills, heroin, and firearms during a law enforcement operation. One suspect, Ricardo Negron, was charged with multiple drug and firearm offenses tied to heightened efforts by local authorities to address public safety concerns. The arrests form part of an ongoing initiative to curb illicit drug activity and reduce violent crime in the neighborhood.
Centre District
Down Town Neighborhood
November 10, 2025
Waterbury Police Arrest Suspect in Narcotics Probe
On November 10th, Waterbury Police arrested a repeat offender following an extensive investigation led by the Vice and Intelligence Unit in cooperation with state officials. The suspect was charged as part of ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime and drug-related offenses in the city’s Downtown area.
City Wide
Police and Safety
November 10, 2025
Man Arrested for September Homicide
Gerard Brown, aged 45, was apprehended by Waterbury Police in coordination with U.S. Marshals and Hartford SWAT on November 10 for his involvement in a fatal shooting that occurred on Charles Street in September. Brown faces multiple charges including murder, unlawful use of a firearm, and reckless endangerment. The case highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to address violent crime in Waterbury.
North End District
Crown Brook Neighborhood
November 9, 2025
Police Investigate Animal Complaint, Warrant Issued
On November 9th, officers responded to a complaint regarding animal mistreatment on Cherry Street. Upon investigation, Waterbury Police obtained an arrest warrant for the alleged perpetrator of animal cruelty, and the affected animal received immediate veterinary care.
Centre District
Down Town Neighborhood
November 7, 2025
Handgun Found in Waterbury Career Academy Student’s Bookbag
A 17-year-old student at Waterbury Career Academy was arrested after police discovered a handgun in the student’s bookbag, triggering a temporary shelter-in-place at the school. The school resource officer detained the student quickly, and normal classes soon resumed. School officials and law enforcement continue to emphasize safety measures to prevent similar incidents.
South End District
Hopeville Neighborhood
November 7, 2025
House Fire Investigation Hampered by Hoarding Conditions
Detectives are investigating a house fire that occurred Friday morning on Sylvan Avenue. Responders noted that a significant hoarding situation at the property impeded firefighting efforts, complicating access and mitigation. No injuries have been reported, and authorities continue to assess the circumstances.
South End District
Hopeville Neighborhood
November 7, 2025
Hoarder Fire
Firefighters responded to a severe house fire on Sylvan Avenue that produced heavy smoke and presented significant challenges due to the hoarding conditions inside the residence. Emergency crews were required to fight the blaze from outside before eventually gaining entry, with fire officials continuing investigations into the cause and taking additional precautions by deploying arson detection dogs. There were no reported fatalities, but the incident underscored ongoing concerns about fire safety and property maintenance in the community.
City Wide
Business
November 6, 2025
Manufacturer Growing in City
Battery storage manufacturer KORE Power appointed Jay Bellows as its new CEO, with plans to strengthen the company’s operations in Waterbury. The move has been described as a sign of Waterbury’s growing importance in Connecticut’s advanced manufacturing sector and highlights ongoing investment in local industry.
City Wide
Community Interest
November 4, 2025
Rents Becoming Compliant
City officials launched a new residential rental registry as part of Waterbury’s efforts to improve property oversight and housing management. The initiative, which utilizes a dedicated online platform, requires all landlords to register their properties by May 1, 2026, aiming to enhance housing quality and compliance with local ordinances.
Wast Side Hill District
West End Neighborhood
November 6, 2025
State Plans to Address Waterbury Hospital Future Amid Ownership Challenges
Recent reports indicate that Yale New Haven Health’s proposed acquisition of Waterbury Hospital is no longer feasible due to financial troubles faced by its current owner, Prospect Medical. State officials are exploring alternative strategies to ensure the hospital’s stability and continued healthcare services for the community.
Saw Mill District
Bunker Hill Neighborhood
November 27, 2025
Holy Cross Defeats Wolcott in Thanksgiving Classic
In addition to the WCA victory earlier in the week, Municipal Stadium played host to the traditional Thanksgiving morning clash between Holy Cross High School and Wolcott High School. The Holy Cross Crusaders defended their home turf with authority, defeating the visiting Eagles 41-6 to reclaim the Joe Lynch Memorial Trophy. The win capped off the season for the Oronoke Road private school, sending their seniors out on a high note in front of a supportive holiday crowd.
Centre District
Downtown Neighborhood
November 2025
Union Station Renovation Project Begins
Construction crews have officially mobilized this week at the historic Union Station on Meadow Street to begin the long-awaited $35.2 million redevelopment project. The initiative, which broke ground earlier this season but is now seeing active interior work, will create a new 1,600-square-foot indoor waiting area and a high-level boarding platform to modernize the commuter experience. State and local officials have highlighted this project as a critical step in revitalizing the downtown transit corridor and reconnecting the city to the broader Metro-North network.
Bucks Hill District
Bucks Hill Neighborhood
November 26, 2025
Police Seize Drugs and Guns in Angel Drive Raid
A targeted operation by the Waterbury Police Department’s Vice and Intelligence Unit on Angel Drive has resulted in the arrest of seven men and the confiscation of a significant stockpile of narcotics. Officers executed a search warrant at the residential complex, recovering approximately 400 grams of fentanyl, 3,440 bags of heroin, 1.6 kilograms of cocaine and crack cocaine, and multiple firearms, including stolen handguns. Among those taken into custody were Adam Guzman, 27, Christopher Lanham, 36, and Donavan Hardison, 35, who face numerous charges related to the operation of a drug factory and criminal possession of weaponry.
Waterville District
Fairmont Neighborhood
November 23, 2025
Yeshua House of Prayer to Host Community Thanksgiving Dinner
Yeshua House of Prayer will host a community Thanksgiving dinner and service on Sunday, November 23, offering Waterbury residents an opportunity to gather for fellowship and a shared meal during the holiday season. The event aims to support community cohesion and provide a welcoming space for families.
Citywide
Multiple Neighborhoods
November 22, 2025
Seasonal Street Sweeping and Job Openings Announced
Waterbury’s Public Works Department has begun seasonal street sweeping operations, requesting residents to remove parked vehicles from designated routes to avoid towing.
North End District
Crownbrook Neighborhood
November 20, 2025
Drug Factory Shutdown Following Police Search
Waterbury police executed a search warrant at a suspected drug factory, resulting in the seizure of over 32 grams of crack cocaine, 18 grams of cocaine, 260 grams of fentanyl, heroin, marijuana, a handgun, and cash. Two residents were charged in connection with operating the drug operation. The police department’s ongoing crackdown aims to reduce the distribution of dangerous narcotics in the community and combat rising drug-related crime.
West Side Hill District
West End Neighborhood
November 17, 2025
UConn Health Acquires Waterbury Hospital
UConn Health finalized the acquisition of Waterbury Hospital following a successful bankruptcy auction, securing the purchase with a $13 million bid on November 17, 2025. This transaction marks a significant transition for the community’s healthcare landscape, as local and state officials plan for enhanced medical services and new investments in capital infrastructure. The sale is being seen as a critical step toward securing long-term healthcare stability for Waterbury residents.
City Wide
Police and Safety
November 12, 2025
Drug Distributor Sentenced in Federal Court
Luis Munoz, also known as “P.R.” and “Puerto Rico,” was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison on November 12 for his role in a drug distribution operation based in Waterbury. Federal investigators seized large quantities of narcotics, cash, and firearms during the arrest, contributing to public safety efforts in the North End.
Central District
Down Town Neighborhood
November 10, 2025
UConn Health Acquires Waterbury Hospital
Over one hundred residents, medical staff, and officials gathered at Waterbury Hospital on Tuesday to mark its acquisition by UConn Health. The transition, finalized after months of negotiations, was widely supported in the state legislature and includes a planned $390 million investment in infrastructure and technology upgrades over five years. Hospital employees expressed relief at the change, viewing it as a necessary move to preserve healthcare services and local jobs.
Governor Ned Lamont announced an agreement for the University of Connecticut Health Center to acquire Waterbury Hospital. The Connecticut General Assembly is expected to vote on legislation permitting the acquisition this week, following an auction that averted a potential closing.
Waterville District
Waterville Neighborhood
November 8, 2025
Brass City Pawn Shop Suffers Fire Damage
In the early hours of November 8, Brass City Pawn experienced a significant fire that caused moderate damage to the building. Firefighters responded promptly to the scene, controlling the blaze and conducting extensive overhaul work to prevent further destruction. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Centre District
Down Town Neighborhood
November 7, 2025
Handgun Found in Waterbury Career Academy Student’s Bookbag
A 17-year-old student at Waterbury Career Academy was arrested after police discovered a handgun in the student’s bookbag, triggering a temporary shelter-in-place at the school. The school resource officer detained the student quickly, and normal classes soon resumed. School officials and law enforcement continue to emphasize safety measures to prevent similar incidents.
Willow Street District
Saint Margaret's-Willow-Plaza Neighborhood
November 7, 2025
Police Increase Presence with Mobile Command Post
In response to recent violent incidents, including the tragic shooting of a 17-year-old earlier this year, Waterbury Police have deployed a mobile command station to the Willow Street area. The increased police presence aims to stabilize the neighborhood through enhanced enforcement and community engagement efforts.
City Wide
Community Interest
November 7, 2025
Wrap It Up Warms Waterbury
Revitalizing Waterbury hosted its annual celebration recognizing community volunteers and supporting the launch of the “Wrap it Up and Win” holiday shopping initiative. The promotion encourages residents to shop locally, reinforcing efforts to boost Waterbury’s economy and foster cooperation between business owners and civic organizations.
Oxford District
Waterbury-Oxford Airport Neighborhood
November 6, 2025
Private Aircraft Runs Off Runway at Local Airport
On Thursday, a private aircraft veered off the runway at Waterbury-Oxford Airport and slid down an embankment. Connecticut State Police have initiated an investigation into the incident, which caused no reported injuries but raised safety questions at the facility.
North End District
Westside Neighborhood
November 4, 2025
Animal Cruelty Arrest Warrant Issued in Viral Dog Abuse Case
Waterbury Police have issued an arrest warrant for 39-year-old Javier Mandujano-Aguilar on charges of animal cruelty after a video surfaced online showing him striking a dog. The dog has been located and is currently receiving veterinary care. Police continue their efforts to apprehend Mandujano-Aguilar.
Center District
Down Town Neighborhood
November 22, 2025
Artisans Marketplace Brings Holiday Cheer
The Waterbury Artisans Marketplace returned to Historic Waterbury City Hall on November 22, 2025, offering residents an opportunity to support local artisans and small businesses just in time for the holiday season. The event featured handcrafted jewelry, fine art, specialty foods, and seasonal gifts from vendors, with food trucks and tasting samples enhancing the festive atmosphere. Admission and parking were free, inviting families, students, and seniors to explore the city’s vibrant creative community at 235 Grand Street.
West Side Hill Disterict
West End Neighborhood
November 20, 2025
Pedestrian Killed in Traffic Collision
A 55-year-old pedestrian died after being struck by an SUV at the intersection of West Main Street and Highland Avenue on November 18. Waterbury police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. The incident underscores concerns about pedestrian safety in key city corridors.
Central District
Downtown Neighborhood
November 15, 2025
Waterbury Theater Closes
Pa’lante Theater Company, Connecticut’s first and only Afro-Latin black box theater, officially closed its doors in downtown Waterbury on October 31, eight months after opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in February. Founder and director Rafael Feliciano-Roman cited the loss of $65,000 in federal funding, significant structural damage from flooding, and reduced staffing levels as key factors behind the closure. Despite fundraising efforts over the summer, the organization was unable to overcome these challenges. Feliciano-Roman emphasized that only the physical space is closing, and Pa’lante will continue to operate as a traveling theater company, following its original inspiration rooted in community outreach and mobility. While the closure was met with disappointment by local artists, including inaugural cast member Fior Rodriguez, both Rodriguez and Feliciano-Roman expressed optimism about Pa’lante’s future community impact, stressing the importance of continued public support for local arts organizations. Plans for 2026 include regrouping and developing a smaller season for 2027, with a commitment to advance Afro-Latin theater and storytelling statewide.
East Mountain District
East Mountain Neighborhood
November 9, 2025
Animal Cruelty Investigation Underway
Authorities are investigating an animal cruelty case after a pregnant dog was found abandoned and tied to a sign while in labor in Waterbury. The Cherry Street area incident is one in a recent string of animal cruelty cases city wide. None of the puppies survived, and police have issued a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification of the responsible party. This case has drawn community attention to the rise in animal neglect locally. Some residents are already calling for the death penalty in such cases, despite the fact that Connecticut no longer carries such a justice punishment.
North End District
Burnt Hill Neighborhood
November 7, 2025
Student Arrested for Gun Possession at School
A 17-year-old student was arrested in Waterbury after authorities found a gun in the student's backpack while at school. The incident heightened concerns about school safety and prompted a swift police response to ensure the security of all students and staff.
City Wide
Undisclosed Details
November 7, 2025
Animal Cruelty Aressts
Police announced the arrest of two local residents after finding dead animals stored in a trailer, resulting in charges of animal cruelty. The case has prompted engagement from residents and animal welfare groups, with city officials pledging thorough investigation and intervention to address animal protection standards.
Centre District
Down Town Neighborhood
November 7, 2025
School Student Brandishes Weapon
A seventeen-year-old student at Waterbury Career Academy was apprehended after school authorities discovered a firearm concealed in his backpack, leading to a lockdown protocol and prompt police response. The shelter-in-place order was lifted once the situation was resolved, but this incident has generated serious discussions among parents and educators regarding school safety measures and the broader implications for youth and gun possession.
City Wide
Health and Medical
November 6, 2025
State Moves to Purchase Waterbury Hospital
Governor Ned Lamont announced the state's plan to purchase Waterbury Hospital following years of deteriorating conditions under previous ownership. The acquisition is part of a broader effort to improve healthcare quality and expand UConn Health's presence, with significant investments anticipated to address urgent facility and staffing issues.
UConn Health has formally placed a bid of $13 million for the purchase of Waterbury Hospital from Prospect Medical Holdings, which has been navigating bankruptcy proceedings this year. This development is a crucial step toward stabilizing the hospital’s future, as the institution serves as a primary source of medical care for Waterbury residents, and the sale includes proposals for substantial state investments that could amount to $390 million in improvements over the next five years, pending legislative approval. Local officials, including Governor Ned Lamont, have expressed optimism that these changes will revitalize health care services in the city.
City Wide
Police and Safety
November 3, 2025
More Drug and Gun Arrests
Waterbury police arrested two individuals, including Ricardo Negron, after seizing controlled substances and firearms as part of an ongoing crackdown targeting drug and gun-related offenses in the city. Authorities continue to prioritize such operations, aiming to prevent violence and ensure safer neighborhoods throughout Waterbury.
Saw Mill District
Wolcott Street Neighborhood
October 29, 2025
Police Identify Suspect in Fatal Wolcott Street Hit-and-Run
Authorities have identified a suspect linked to a fatal hit-and-run incident on Wolcott Street in late October that resulted in the death of a 74-year-old man. The investigation is ongoing, with police working towards making an arrest and bringing closure to the victim’s family.