PLAINVILLE, CT – A beloved and longtime member of the Plainville Fire Department, Raymond “Ray” Moreau, 60, tragically lost his life on Sunday morning, July 27, 2025, while responding to a house fire on Maria Road.
Emergency crews arrived on the scene just after 6:20 a.m. to battle the blaze. During operations outside the residence, Moreau — a 35-year veteran volunteer firefighter — was standing near a fire apparatus when a piece of the fire truck unexpectedly broke off and struck him.
According to Connecticut State Police, the detached equipment caused catastrophic injuries to Moreau’s legs. He was immediately transported to the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain, where he died during emergency surgery.
Moreau was a dedicated public servant who gave tens of thousands of volunteer hours to the Plainville community. In addition to his fire service, he was a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a loving husband.
“This person’s a volunteer,” said Plainville Police Chief Christopher Vanghele. “They do a job that’s not safe. They put their lives on the line year after year. A death like this is the death of a hero. My heart goes out to the family for that sacrifice.”
Ronnell Higgins, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, echoed the grief felt across the state: “This isn’t merely a job or a hobby — being a volunteer firefighter is a calling. Moreau answered that call. His loss cuts like a knife. We are deeply grateful for his sacrifice.”
In honor of Firefighter Moreau’s ultimate sacrifice, Governor Ned Lamont has ordered all U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to be lowered to half-staff, effective immediately. Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of Moreau’s interment.
The incident remains under investigation by state officials. As the community mourns, Moreau is remembered as a true hero who selflessly served with courage, commitment, and unwavering heart.
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