55-year-old Fall River man killed in pedestrian crash remembered for kindness and generosity

A Fall River man who died from injuries sustained in a pedestrian crash is being remembered.

According to the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office, on Friday, Brockton Police and Massachusetts State Police responded to reports of a motor vehicle versus pedestrian crash at 885 Belmont Street.

Upon arrival, first responders located an injured man and transported him to an area hospital where he was subsequently pronounced deceased. He has been identified as 55-year-old William Dearth of Fall River. 

Investigators determined, through witness interviews and available surveillance footage, that Dearth had been crossing Belmont Street immediately before being struck by a passing Toyota Highlander. Video showed the truck had been travelling at a normal speed, and the area where Dearth had crossed was not a crosswalk and was not well-lit at the time of the crash. The driver of the Toyota Highlander was transported to an area hospital following the incident for medical evaluation. 

According to a GoFundMe fundraiser, Dearth “touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity. William’s family and friends are heartbroken by his sudden and unexpected passing.”

In an update, while authorities have said Dearth is from Fall River, family members have stated to Fall River Reporter that he is from Brockton.

The investigation into the fatal crash is ongoing and is being conducted by Massachusetts State Police.

No criminal charges have been issued relating to this incident.

Services for Dearth have not yet been announced.