Call for Reform in Wake of Boston Fire Fighter Death

December 15, 2009 – After an 11-month investigation by Boston, Massachusetts, police detectives, forensic motor vehicle experts and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office, sub-standard equipment maintenance and insufficient training have been determined to be among the leading causes in the death of Boston Local 718 fire fighter Kevin Kelley.

“Knowing that there may be some fire fighter safety issues within the department, Local 718 called for an external safety audit in 2006,” says Local 718 President Edward Kelly. “Had the department complied with our request, this horrific tragedy could have been avoided.”

On January 9, 2009, Kelley and fellow Local 718 fire fighters Amos Monteiro, David Blaides and Robert O’Neill III were returning from a medical call when the brakes failed. Under the direction of Kelley, driver O’Neill tried several different methods to slow down or stop the truck, but nothing worked.

Finally, O’ Neill suggested that he steer into a light pole or unoccupied cars; however, Kelley advised against the maneuver because of the potential danger to civilians. Instead, O’Neill moved the truck into a thick masonry wall while Kelley told the fire fighters on board to brace for impact and sounded the truck’s air horn.

Kelley was killed instantly from blunt force trauma to the head. The other three were also injured.

“Let us not forget the courage and heroics demonstrated by our member fire fighters that day,” says President Kelly. “We hope that the ultimate sacrifice made by Lieutenant Kelley will be a catalyst for true reform of our department. Both fire fighters and citizens deserve at least that much.”

After the accident, an investigation was launched to determine the cause of the crash and to determine whether any criminal charges should be filed. Two potential offenses were considered: manslaughter and motor vehicle homicide by negligent operation.

Investigators found no evidence of criminal action. They did recommend, however, the Boston Fire Department take “this opportunity to ensure that its training and maintenance practices are revised to avoid another tragic and devastating loss.”