Popular Bridgeport Musician Mourned From Fairfield Crash

FAIRFIELD, CT — Bridgeport area musicians and fans are mourning the loss of popular local musician William "Billy" Foster, 75, one of two people killed Friday in a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 in Fairfield.

Foster was the lead singer of the band, Billy and the Showmen, which frequently played at local hotspots, such as the Seagrape in Fairfield, the Black Duck Cafe in Westport and the Horseshoe Cafe in Southport, among others, reported News 12 Connecticut.

Tributes poured in for Foster on Facebook by friends and fans, who remembered as a Vietnam Veteran and a larger-than-life figure, who was part of the band for decades.

Foster joined the band in 1965, but joined the U.S. Air Force soon after and went to Vietnam, the Connecticut Post reported.

"There was never a world without Billy in it, he was friends with my older brothers," wrote Abby Jenkins. "[Billy and the Showmen] would play at my brother’s club in Port Chester often, it was always a good time. Even though I was always just “Freddy’s little sister”, he certainly knew how to make you feel special, sing your heart out and dance all night. My heart goes out to his friends and family."

The fatal crash occurred just before midnight on Friday, northbound on I-95 between Exits 19 and 23. Also killed in the crash was Fred Eugene Nimmon, 70, a Pennsylvania truck driver. Additionally, a Virginia resident in the third vehicle suffered minor injuries.

Both Foster and Nimmon were ejected from their vehicles in the crash.

"So very heartbroken over the loss of this musical giant," wrote Audrey Demarinis. "My deepest condolences to his band mates, family and all whom were lucky enough to call him friend. RIP Billy, your music will live on forever. God bless you my friend. I'll miss your silly videos and comments. Love you."

Brian Curley, one of Foster's bandmates, grew up with him in Greenwich, he told News 12 Connecticut.

"He certainly was a larger-than-life personality," Curley told the news station.

The crash is under investigation by the State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Squad.

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision, is urged to contact Trooper Eliana Builes #898 via e-mail at Eliana.Builes@ct.gov.