Hartford Superior Court Sentences Rivera for Hit-and-Run Incident Involving Teen Bicyclist
On Thursday, Alex Rivera was sentenced to 15 years in prison, with five years to be served, for a hit-and-run incident that severely injured 16-year-old Liam Shields in Avon.
Rivera, 39, struck Shields while the teen was riding his bicycle on Oct. 4, 2024. He drove for four miles with Shields on the roof of his vehicle before abandoning him on the roadside, according to prosecutors.
Liam Shields, now 17, spent over six weeks in the hospital and continues to face long-term recovery challenges from a traumatic brain injury. In court, he expressed frustration over Rivera's perceived leniency, stating, “This man tried to murder me.”
Liam's father, Jeremy Shields, recounted the emotional turmoil the family has endured, emphasizing the neglect shown during the incident. “The act of indifference will haunt me forever,” he said.
Rivera has completed 11 months of custody, and will serve three years of probation post-release. During the sentencing, he expressed remorse, acknowledging the pain caused by his actions.
The sentencing judge criticized Rivera's decision to leave Shields behind, stating, “That shows a flaw that I can't accept, and I don't think society can condone.” Rivera's defense attorney noted that the sentence fell within expected guidelines.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.