BROCKTON, Mass. — The pedestrian that was struck by a Brockton Police cruiser Friday night has died, Plymouth County District Attorney said. Officials identified that victim as Antonio Tavares, 61, of Brockton.
The incident occurred around 8:40 p.m. near 581 Main St. in Brockton. Police said an officer was heading to another call around 8:19 p.m. when they hit Tavares with a marked police cruiser.
According to the DA, the officer was traveling with the car's lights and sirens on at the time of the crash. The officer administered first aid to the victim after the incident, before Tavares was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
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"After this happened, everyone said he was a nice guy," said Tito Fernandez, Tavares' cousin. "Nice guy, funny guy."
Tavares leaves behind nine children and a wife. His family is devastated.
Osvaldina Meadows ran to help the victim right after the crash.
"So I went and hold his hand and tried to talk to him," Meadows said. "I kept asking his name and how he's doing."
She added that Tavares wasn't responding.
The Brockton Police officer involved was transported to South Shore Hospital for treatment.
Law enforcement officials from Mass. State Police and the Plymouth County DA's Office are currently investigating the incident.
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