Easton Firefighter Charged In Fatal Fairfield Hit-And-Run: Police

FAIRFIELD, CT — A volunteer firefighter from Easton was charged in connection with the hit-and-run crash that killed a Pennsylvania woman while she was visiting family in Fairfield during the Fourth of July weekend.

Declan P. Kot, 22, was arrested Wednesday night and faces a long list of charges, according to police.

Marileidy Morel Araujo was struck while walking her dog Saturday near 2000 Redding Road. Kot fled and two passing motorists found Araujo lying in the road and called 911, Fairfield police said in a news release.

Kot is a firefighter with Easton Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1, according to the company's website. A person named Declan Kot is also listed as a constable on the town of Easton's website.

"The hit-and-run on Redding Road over the holiday weekend was a tragedy for the victim and her family. I hope at the very least this will serve as a reminder for residents to slow down and be alert while driving," First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick said in a statement. "My thoughts and sincere prayers are with the young woman’s family during this very difficult time."

Investigators initially thought a Jeep Wrangler could have been involved in the crash, but later determined the vehicle was likely larger than a Jeep, according to police. Redding Road residents provided video that showed the driver of a white Dodge Ram pickup fleeing north. The truck had black rims and a large American flag flying from a pole attached to the back tow hitch. Evidence at the scene revealed additional details about the pickup, including how it had been damaged, police said.

Officers stopped a Dodge Ram fitting the suspect vehicle description Tuesday on North Benson Road, according to police. Kot was driving, police said. Law enforcement interviewed him at police headquarters before issuing an arrest warrant.

"The collaborative and resolute efforts of all involved personnel are a shining example of the persistence, dedication and professionalism continually exhibited by the men and women of the Fairfield Police Department," Chief Christopher Lyddy said in the news release. "We would like to again thank the several hundred individuals who provided potential leads and tips throughout the investigation."

Kot is charged with misconduct with a motor vehicle, a Class D felony, as well as evading responsibility in operating a vehicle resulting in death, evidence tampering, failure to drive in the proper lane, driving without fenders, driving with tinted windows without a tinting sticker and driving with a tinted windshield, police said.

If convicted of the evading charge, Kot could face up to 20 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. The misconduct charge could result in as many as five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Kot was released Wednesday after posting $150,000 bond, according to police. He cannot drive unless he is granted permission in superior court. His court date is set for July 15. Kot has no prior convictions in Connecticut courts, according to the state judicial database.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information or surveillance video is asked to contact Sgt. Michael Paris at mparis@fairfieldct.org or 203-254-4862.