Ex-Barnstable Police Chief Nightingale Dies At 91

BARNSTABLE, MA — Retired Barnstable Chief of Police Neil Nightingale died on Tuesday. He was 91.

Nightingale graduated from Barnstable High School in 1951 and joined the Barnstable Police Department in 1955, the department said in a news release.

He rose through the ranks within the department, serving as patrolman, sergeant, lieutenant and, eventually, was appointed Chief of Police in 1976.

"A decorated officer with many commendations, he proudly wore the uniform and served his community with distinction," the department said.

In Nightingale's 43 years with Barnstable, he was "instrumental" in the construction of the current police facility.

"Chief Nightingale lived a full life balancing work and family. He enjoyed watching his sons play hockey at the rink and spending time with his wife and family on the water," officials said.