A 66-year-old Fall River native has died from fatal injuries he sustained while on the job.
According to police, last Wednesday, just before 9:00 a.m., Meriden, Connecticut Police Officers responded to the area of 391 Broad Street, at its intersection with Olive Street for a report of a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle suffering serious injuries. The pedestrian was identified as Dale Chavous, a City of Meriden Crossing Guard.
Emergency services, including the Meriden Fire Department and Hunter’s Ambulance also arrived on scene and began life saving measures. Chavous was ultimately transported to Mid-State Hospital for continued treatment but unfortunately would succumb to his serious injuries. He was pronounced deceased by medical staff.
The Meriden Police Department stated that they are devastated by the loss of one of their Crossing Guards. “Our thoughts and prayers go to the victim’s family, friends, and colleagues here within our agency and within the Crossing Guard unit.”
The Meriden Public School System also stated “This is an awful tragedy. Our condolences go out to our crossing guard’s family and his relatives. Our students and families will miss his friendly smile and positive approach, which was an important and welcome part of keeping them safe every day.”
The case is being investigated by the Meriden Police Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit. The driver stayed at the scene and has not been charged.
Chavous was a Durfee grad who had just started his new job in August.
According to a GoFundMe fundraiser, he was a joy for both students and parents. Chavous was beloved by the Meriden community as his fundraiser has already raised over $30,000 as of this writing.
An obituary noted that “Dale passed away while celebrating nearly six years of sobriety, a testament to his perseverance, courage and dedication to his recovery. He proudly chaired weekly at his home group at the Pavilion of Hope.”
Services are being held Wednesday in Meriden.
The Meriden Police Department is asking anyone that witnessed this crash or may have video to please contact the Meriden Police Department at 203-630-6201.
