Former State Rep., Firefighter Killed in Drunk Driving Accident

As the Bedford Police Department continues its investigation into the fatal motor vehicle accident on Saturday Sept. 5, 2015, on Kilton Road, it has released the name of the victim of the accident as well as the booking photo of the defendant and investigation and accident photos, according to a press release.

The accident victim was Eric Palangas, 49, of Manchester. Palangas was a firefighter in Manchester and a Democratic state representative for one term in 2012, according to press reports. He was also a Ward 5 moderator. He was a graduate of Manchester Central High School and also attended Nebraska Academy of Emergency Response.

Nicholas Palangas was charged with negligent homicide, aggravated driving while intoxicated, and other charges.

Ironically, nearly four years ago this week, Eric Palangas was struck by a drunk driver while driving his pickup truck on the same road, according to the New Hampshire Union Leader.

Police are also still looking for any witnesses to the crash. Anyone with information to the incident should be submitted to Sgt. Devon Kimball of the Bedford Police Department at 603-472-5113.