A New Castle police officer is still in critical condition following a traffic accident.

Heather Micco, the niece of Robert Lepore, said yesterday another prayer vigil has been scheduled for the 44-year-old.

The vigil will begin at 8 p.m. Friday at St. Vincent de Paul Parish.

According to state police, Lepore was traveling north on Atlantic Avenue at 8:15 p.m. July 13 when his 2007 Ford Expedition left the road. Lepore, who was off duty at the time, was driving a private vehicle.

The sport utility vehicle struck a utility pole near the Sunny Avenue intersection, sheering the pole off at the base. The Explorer continued north, according to police, and struck a tree.

Lepore was transported to Presbyterian Hospital by helicopter.

Micco said yesterday he is “still listed as critical, but he is still fighting.”

State police have indicated they are still investigating the crash. No cause has been reported.