CHICOPEE, Massachusetts – A tragic incident unfolded over the weekend as a Chicopee firefighter, Jason Chapdelaine, was charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Eileen Monaghan, in western Massachusetts. The Hampden District Attorney’s Office revealed that the incident occurred early Sunday morning, prompting a response from Holyoke police to the 200 block of South Water Street. Upon arrival, they found Monaghan with stab wounds and Chapdelaine unconscious due to self-inflicted harm.
Chapdelaine, a 52-year-old resident of Springfield, was taken into custody and charged with murder following the death of Monaghan, a 48-year-old resident of Chicopee. Reports indicate that the couple was in a relationship, as noted by The Boston Globe. Chapdelaine appeared in court on Tuesday for his arraignment where he pleaded not guilty and was ordered to be held without bail until his next court appearance on May 13.
The tragic loss of Monaghan, who served as an executive assistant to Sheriff Nick Cocchi and was a mother of two, has shaken the community. Cocchi expressed his sorrow over the incident, describing Monaghan as a beloved colleague and a dedicated individual. Monaghan, a former chief of staff to state Rep. Joseph Wagner, was remembered for her generous nature and impact on those around her, especially her children.
The Chicopee mayor’s office confirmed that Chapdelaine, a firefighter in the city, has been placed on unpaid leave following his arrest. The Hampden County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Monaghan leaves behind a loving family, spanning from western Massachusetts to Ireland. The community has been urged to keep the Monaghan family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.