Statement of Stoughton Police Chief Donna McNamara:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of David “Spanky” Sousa, a lifelong Stoughton resident and a longtime friend.”

“Sousa was known for playing Santa Claus every year in Stoughton. Sousa was a proud townie from Stoughton, and served on the Select Board for several years. He loved his hometown, and was proud of it.”

“Sousa was also a tremendous and steadfast supporter of maintaining proper public safety staffing in the Town of Stoughton and was a longtime supporter of police and public safety.”

“David Sousa helped many people, and he was always known for lending a helping hand to anyone who needed it.”

“Sousa hailed from a family that for years owned the Stoughton Diner, once a staple in the community. He had a true dedication to service.”

“David Sousa was an upstanding and outstanding member of the Stoughton Community, and a man whose kind heart and generous nature will be greatly missed.”

“I offer my condolences to his family and co-workers at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.”