Beloved Former Derby Police Officer, Honorary EMS Chief Dies

DERBY, CT — Derby police and EMS are mourning the loss of Arthur "Artie" Fredericks, a former police officer and honorary EMS chief who recently died.

Police announced the news of Fredericks' death "with heavy hearts" in a Facebook post Wednesday afternoon.

Fredericks was sworn in by Mayor Ralph Romano on June 13, 1969, and later served as a member of the Naugatuck Valley Regional Narcotics Squad in 1971, according to police.

He was promoted to the rank of detective on May 13, 1974, and promoted to the rank of detective sergeant on April 27, 1984.

Fredericks retired from the Derby Police Department on Jan. 20, 1998.

"Rest in peace, Artie," police said on Facebook.

The Derby Storm Engine Company and Ambulance Corps also posted a tribute to Fredericks on social media earlier this week. They noted Fredericks was the company's longest serving active member, as well as a beloved honorary past captain and honorary EMS chief.

"Artie embodied the true spirit of firefighting," the post reads, "courage, selflessness and a relentless commitment to serving our community. He was a mentor, a friend and a guiding light. From the rookies to the seasoned vets, everyone looked up to Artie and learned from his incredible example."

The company also noted funeral arrangements for Fredericks will be announced at a later date.

"We will forever cherish the memories, the stories and the legacy Artie leaves behind," the post reads. "Rest in peace, Artie. You will always be a part of the Storm Engine Company family."