Beloved EMT Killed In CT Motorcycle Crash

TORRINGTON, CT — A Kent EMT has been identified as the man who died in a motorcycle crash this week, according to The Torrington Register-Citizen. Christopher Smith, 53, of Torrington, was killed in a crash on his way home from the fire department Tuesday.

Police believe Smith was riding east on Route 202 and his motorcycle collided with an SUV turning left, according to The Torrington Register-Citizen. Smith suffered life-threatening injuries and was taken to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Kent Volunteer Fire Department posted on Facebook: "KVFD members were stunned and saddened by the news that one of our contracted EMTs, Chris Smith, tragically died in a motorcycle accident on his way home from work at our firehouse Tuesday. Chris, who covered EMS shifts for us, was an exceedingly helpful and friendly person to work with. KVFD extends our deepest condolences to Chris’ fellow ERM employees and especially his family during this very difficult time."

The Emergency Resource Management, LLC posted on Facebook that Smith was an "8-year employee and friend of Emergency Resource Management."

"EMS was his life; working for ERM in at least 5 different client locations, as well as being a volunteer in Plymouth and for 2 commercial EMS services," Emergency Resource Management said on Facebook. "He was always willing to go above and beyond to help others. He was Very proud to be in EMS, very rarely would you see him in anything other than an EMS/Fire shirt. Chris will always be remembered as a big man with an even bigger heart with an outgoing personality, an infectious smile and sense of humor. He enjoyed cooking and playing video games online with his 3 kids. He will be deeply missed by many."

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Smith also had ties to the Bethany Fire Department.

A post on the Bethany Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page reads: "It is with an incredibly heavy heart that we announce the passing of EMT Christopher Smith. Chris was an employee of our EMS staffing partner and has been assigned to Bethany since 2014. Although not directly on the BVFD roster, Chris was undoubtedly a part of the BVFD family. From attending our annual Officer Awards dinners and holiday parties, to helping out at BCS Fire Prevention Days, on his own time, he quickly developed a love for our community. Chris was also a large part of EMS in Litchfield County, where he displayed the same characteristics and passion. Some might remember Chris as the guy that was able to put a smile on your face, or even get a little chuckle out of you, in the midst of a stressful medical emergency. Please keep Chris’s family, friends, and public service partners in your thoughts and prayers. Rest Easy Chris, you will be missed."