Former Simsbury Police Captain Dies, Mourned

SIMSBURY, CT — Former Simsbury police captain Matt Catania has died, according to a post from the department. He served for 25 years in Simsbury before becoming chief of police in Plainville.

The Simsbury Police Department posted the following on Facebook: "Connecticut lost one of its greats today, Matt Catania. He spent 25 years policing in Simsbury, retiring from the department as a Captain in 2010 before serving as Chief of Police in Plainville for the last 11 years. For our community, he served as an advocate, an educator, a leader, a problem-solver, a life-saver, a hero and a friend. Within this department, he was a mentor, who cared for all and strove for perfection, professional development and inclusion. He did so with intelligence, compassion and humor; as an officer, a commander and a friend. His impact on individuals, families, this department and community is immeasurable. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Catania family. He will be missed dearly."

The Plainville police department wrote in a post on Facebook on Wednesday morning. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Chief, Matthew Catania. He will be greatly missed. He was a legend in policing and well known throughout the state. His legacy will live on.

"Throughout his career he provided the best possible police services to the communities he served. We will continue to honor him and strive to deliver the quality of police services he instilled in us."