William Brunault dies in fatal Holyoke motorcycle crash

William Brunault dies in fatal Holyoke motorcycle crash
Fatal Holyoke motorcycle crash death of William Brunault

An official investigation continues following a significant motorcycle accident that occurred in Holyoke on Monday, resulting in the death of one man. Friends and relatives have confirmed that the individual involved in the accident was William Brunault. According to Holyoke Police, they were dispatched to the vicinity of Lyman and North Bridge Streets shortly before 3:00 p.m.

Emergency personnel transported the injured motorcyclist to a hospital, but the patient ultimately succumbed to their injuries. On Tuesday, Bobbie Kelley, a resident of South Hadley who has known William Brunault for approximately 34 years, shared some personal reflections. “Among the most prominent recollections I hold of him is his inherent kindness, and often, before we departed any gathering, he was the one reminding everyone to stay safe,” Kelley noted. “He would invariably tell people to give loved ones a hug and叮嘱 them to exercise caution on their way home. That was William.”

She further mentioned that William was an active participant in the motorcycle riding community and was recognized by many patrons at a well-known pub in Holyoke, referred to as “The Clover.” “The owner called me from the Clover, and it’s evident that everyone there is deeply saddened by this news,” she conveyed.

William was known by various nicknames, such as Bill, Williard, or Willie. However, for Carly Brunault, her only term for him was “dad.” Daughter Carly Brunault expressed her thoughts, stating, “My father was a spirited and free-spirited person, and that vibrancy was infectious to everyone around him.” She recalled a particularly adventurous example from the 1980s involving her father: “He once raced 280 bikers in a motocross event in Manchester, Vermont. That 50-mile race? He won first place.”

A long-time companion, Donald Orchutt, recounted a touching memory involving William. Orchutt, who was present on the day of the incident and remained a steadfast friend through the ensuing years, shared, “William has been my friend since high school. He was someone who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed help. He was a genuinely kind, loving, and caring person.”

Further updates regarding the crash details are pending. The Holyoke District Attorney’s office has not yet released additional information. As a tribute, friends have set up a GoFundMe page for the family.