The Cromwell community is reeling from the sudden and tragic loss of 67-year-old Roger Dailey, a Middletown resident whose life was claimed in a car fire at Riverport Park in Frisbee Landings on Sunday, February 9, 2025. The incident, which was initially met with confusion and concern, has since been confirmed as an accidental death by the Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Dailey’s passing has left a profound impact on those who knew him, and the circumstances surrounding his untimely demise have shaken the local community to its core.
At approximately 5:00 p.m. on February 9, Cromwell police and local emergency responders were called to the scene of a reported vehicle fire at Riverport Park. Multiple 911 calls alerted authorities to a car that was fully engulfed in flames. Upon arriving at the scene, emergency personnel were met with the devastating sight of a vehicle ablaze, surrounded by thick smoke and fire. The quick action of Cromwell’s dedicated fire department members ensured that the fire was extinguished as quickly as possible, but tragically, upon further investigation, it was discovered that the fire had already taken the life of the vehicle’s sole occupant, later identified as Roger Dailey.
Following the extinguishment of the fire, investigators were able to access the vehicle and confirm the presence of a deceased individual inside. The victim was quickly identified as Roger Dailey of Middletown, Connecticut. According to officials, the vehicle had been parked in the remote section of Riverport Park known as Frisbee Landings, an area that, at the time of the incident, was not frequented by many individuals. This unfortunate accident has left family members, friends, and the wider community in deep mourning as they try to come to terms with the loss of a man whose life was tragically cut short in such an unexpected and painful manner.
In the wake of the incident, Cromwell police worked tirelessly to piece together the details surrounding the fire. An initial investigation into the fire was launched immediately, with fire and police officials focusing their attention on determining the cause and circumstances of the vehicle fire. While the specifics of how the fire started remain unclear, the Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosion Unit joined local authorities to assist with the investigation.
In a statement released by the Cromwell Police Department, officials explained that there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. Following their investigation, the death was deemed to be accidental. The fire, while tragic, did not appear to involve any deliberate act or criminal activity. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials are reviewing all possibilities to ensure a thorough examination of the events leading up to the fire. The Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy, and their findings confirmed that the cause of death was consistent with the accidental nature of the incident.
While the official investigation has provided some clarity, the sudden and unexpected nature of Roger Dailey’s death has left many unanswered questions. Family members, friends, and members of the Cromwell community are still processing the loss of a man who was deeply loved and respected. Dailey was known to be an active member of his local community and an individual who always put others before himself. Those who knew him remember him for his generosity, his caring nature, and his ability to make others feel welcome and appreciated. His death has left a hole in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Roger Dailey’s family members have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and love from the community during this difficult time. In a statement released through the Cromwell Police Department, they thanked friends, neighbors, and local organizations for their condolences and support. “Our family is heartbroken by this tragedy. Roger was a wonderful man, a loving father, grandfather, and friend. His loss has been devastating, but we are thankful for the kindness and compassion shown to us by our community during this very difficult time,” the statement read.
While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the family has asked for privacy as they grieve the loss of their loved one. They have also expressed their hope that the authorities will be able to provide additional clarity about the circumstances of the fire, though they have stated that they understand the complexity of the situation. The family is focused on celebrating Roger Dailey’s life and the impact he had on those around him, rather than on the circumstances of his passing. The family has requested that donations be made to local charities in Roger’s name in lieu of flowers, reflecting his own long-standing commitment to supporting local causes.
As of now, the community of Cromwell is coming together to support the Dailey family in their time of need. A memorial service for Roger Dailey will be held in the coming days, with details to be shared with the community as they are finalized. In addition to the support from family and friends, local residents have gathered to offer their condolences and to share memories of the kind and generous man who touched so many lives in the area.
Roger Dailey’s passing is a stark reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is to appreciate each moment we have with our loved ones. His sudden death has not only left a void in the lives of his family members but also in the community he so deeply cared for. Though his life was tragically cut short, the memory of his kindness, generosity, and infectious spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Roger’s impact on his community, his family, and his friends will continue to resonate long after his passing, and his legacy will forever be remembered in Cromwell and beyond.
The incident has also highlighted the importance of safety in our daily lives, particularly when it comes to vehicles and fire safety. Authorities are encouraging residents to be mindful of the potential dangers posed by vehicle fires and to take all necessary precautions to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained and safe to operate. While the cause of Roger Dailey’s tragic accident has yet to be fully determined, the community’s response underscores the need for vigilance and care to prevent similar accidents in the future.
As the Cromwell community mourns the loss of a beloved resident, they also remember the legacy of a man who was dedicated to helping others, who valued family above all else, and who lived life to the fullest. Roger Dailey will be missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will be forever cherished by all who were touched by his kindness and generosity.
