Shelton Volunteer Firefighter Killed In Fairfield Crash

FAIRFIELD, CT — The fire community is mourning the death of a volunteer firefighter of the Shelton and Trumbull fire departments, who died in a car accident this weekend, according to the Valley Fire Chiefs Regional Training School.

"The staff of the Valley Fire School would like to express our sincere condolences to the friends, family and colleagues of Firefighter Austin Buoni from the Shelton and Trumbull Fire Departments. Austin passed away last night due to injuries sustained from a motor vehicle accident. Austin was a graduate of our 2014 Firefighter I Program. He was an excellent student, and just a great kid outside of the classroom. His passing will be felt by many."

Buoni, 22, of Stratford, was killed in a crash on Saturday. Fairfield Police said Sunday that at 1:40 a.m. Saturday police responded to a single car motor vehicle crash on Kings Highway East at the intersection of Chestnut Street. Preliminary investigation revealed that Buoni was the sole occupant operating a 2005 Nissan Altima, traveling eastbound on Kings Highway East when he lost control of his vehicle and began to slide across the eastbound travel lane before striking a utility pole off the right side of the road where the vehicle came to rest, police said.

Buoni was transported by AMR ambulance to Bridgeport Hospital where life-saving efforts continued. Buoni was pronounced dead by medical staff a short time later. This crash is currently being investigated by the Fairfield Police Crash Reconstruction Unit.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Austin's family. According to the GoFundMe, "Many would describe Austin as an "old soul", with compassion for others beyond measure. His gentle, self-less spirit attracted people of all ages, occupations, and backgrounds. This trait is also what drove his passion for the occupation of Firefighter and EMT.

He was a member of the Shelton and Trumbull fire departments and a graduate of the 2014 Valley Fire Chiefs Regional Training School. He was looking forward to taking the next step to enhance his career. Austin was the son of Nancy Kellerman and Joe Buoni, brother to Arinn and Allison, cousin and nephew to countless, and cherished friend of many.

On the morning of May 12th, he was involved in a tragic motor vehicle accident in Fairfield, CT that has left us all broken and at a loss for words. Austin was a giver, and will continue to give the gift of life to many with his decision years ago to become an organ donor. He always said, "If I'm not using it, why shouldn't someone else receive the gift of life."

Unfortunately along with unexpected tragedy comes the burden of finances. As a family, we are asking those who kept Austin dear to their heart, to assist Nancy and Joe in contributing what they can. They have a long road of healing ahead of them, and any donations to lighten their load would be appreciated. Services are being arranged and will be announced soon. Thank you again for your support, The Buoni and Kellerman Families."

On the Valley Fire Chiefs Regional Training School Facebook page colleagues shared their memories.

>>>View the GoFundMe page here.

Image via GoFundMe. GoFundMe is a Patch partner.