PEABODY — The Peabody Fire Department is mourning one of its own in the wake of Sunday’s fatal accident.
Daniel Pimenta, a veteran of the Peabody Fire Department, died after he was struck by a car while riding his bicycle in Beverly.
“It is with deepest regret that the Peabody Fire Department announces the passing of firefighter Daniel Pimenta,” reads a notice from Fire Chief Steven Pasdon. “Dan was 53 years old and a 27-year veteran of the department and leaves behind a wife and two children.
“Dan was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (a debilitating diseases that affects the brain and spinal cord) 25 years ago, but never stopped firefighting and worked diligently to raise awareness for the disease,” the notice continued. “He started the PFD Honor Guard Bike Team. They rode in numerous fundraising events.”
Pasdon’s notice concluded by saying that this is a difficult time for the department and requests that they be allowed space and time to grieve Pimenta’s loss.
Beverly Police and Fire, along with medics from Northeast Ambulance responded to 935 Hale St. for a car crash involving a bicyclist around 4:20 p.m., Beverly Police said in a statement.
Emergency responders found Pimenta with life-threatening injuries. He was taken to Beverly Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.
Police said Paul Fiore, 69, of Beverly, was driving northbound in his Jeep when the collision occurred. No charges have been filed against the driver.
The Peabody Firefighters Local 925 union said in a statement posted on social media Sunday night that Pimenta was an avid cyclist and champion supporter for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
“He rode every chance he got and he fought hard to raise awareness and support for this cause,” the union wrote. “We ask that you keep his loving wife and two children in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.”
A gofundme page has been set up, with all proceeds benefitting the Pimenta family. The page also encourages people to consider making a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
“Dan Pimenta was a hero within his community in more ways than one can imagine,” the gofundme page reads. “He battled a neurologic disease, multiple sclerosis, with strength and humility while serving as a firefighter in Peabody … He not only fought his diagnosis with Herculean fashion, he raised awareness for MS at every opportunity possible. This past year, he was one of the top finishers at the annual MS climb to the top (61 flights) in the most Dan Pimenta-style possible — in full firefighter uniform.”
According to the page, Pimenta married his best friend, Donna, about 25 years ago. The couple shared two children, Stephanie and Jake. The firefighter would support his children’s athletics by volunteering to coach their sports teams at Peabody Veterans Memorial High School.
Pimenta was described on gofundme as the life of the party and a man who loved his wife with all his heart.
