Former Bridgeport Assistant Fire Chief Found Dead: Police

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Harold Clarke Sr., a 35-year member of the Bridgeport Fire Department, was found dead Friday, the day he was reportedly scheduled to be sentenced following a sexual assault conviction from late last year.

When Clarke did not appear in court for his scheduled sentencing, a judicial marshal contacted Bridgeport police. Officers then tracked the last known location of Clarke's GPS monitor where they found his body.

The Connecticut Post reported that Clarke, a former assistant fire chief, was convicted in November of sexually assaulting a woman in his home in 2022. He was facing a possible 20-year prison sentence at the time of his death.

Bridgeport police are investigating the untimely death; the location of where Clarke was discovered was not disclosed.

"I send my condolences to Harold Clarke’s family," said Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim in a statement. "I'm deeply sorry for your loss, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I’m wishing you comfort and peace during this time of sorrow."

"My condolences to the family and friends of Harold Clarke Sr.," said Bridgeport Fire Chief Lance Edwards. "Chief Clarke spent 34 ½ years with the Bridgeport Fire Department. Losing a loved one is never easy for the family and friends left behind, but as time goes on you will remember the joy that he brought into your lives."

Added Police Chief Roderick Porter, "On behalf of the Bridgeport Police Department, we send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Harold Clarke."