New Bedford Community Mourns Death of Carl Colangelo

The 66-year-old resident died in a head-on crash in Bastrop, Texas.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Accidents

New Bedford Community Mourns Death of Carl Colangelo

Longtime community figure Carl Colangelo has died at age 66 following a head-on vehicle crash in Bastrop, Texas. Colangelo was a dedicated member of the New Bedford Police Chief's Advisory Board.

Why it matters

Colangelo was a pillar of the New Bedford community, having served on the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament Committee for over 30 years. He was also widely recognized for his heroic 2017 rescue of his mother from a house fire.

The investigation into the fatal crash in Bastrop, Texas, remains the primary focus of the authorities following the accident. Funeral services and calling hours have been formally scheduled for the coming days.

The players

Carl Colangelo

He was a 66-year-old New Bedford resident who served on the Police Chief's Advisory Board and the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament Committee.

Rock Funeral Home

This is a local establishment in New Bedford designated to host the memorial calling hours for the deceased.

Saint Gabriel the Archangel Parish

This is the local religious institution where the funeral services for Colangelo will take place.

The details

Colangelo was a well-known civic contributor in New Bedford, balancing his advisory roles with long-standing commitment to local festival governance. His life was defined by both his public service and the notable act of bravery he displayed in 2017.

2017: Colangelo rescued his mother from a burning home.
Oct. 19, 2026: Calling hours are scheduled at Rock Funeral Home from 4-8 p.m.
Oct. 20, 2026: Funeral services are held at 10 a.m. at Saint Gabriel the Archangel Parish.

Legal Context

Colangelo's act of saving his mother from a fire aligns with the standards for civilian heroism set by the 2017 Carnegie Medal criteria. These markers of public service often highlight the local impact of residents who are otherwise active in municipal advisory boards.

The passing of a long-term member of the Police Chief's Advisory Board may affect upcoming community outreach programs in the city. Residents are invited to attend the scheduled services to offer their respects to the family.

The takeaway

Carl Colangelo will be remembered for his decades of dedication to the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament Committee and his profound courage. Community members looking to pay their respects should note the specific times scheduled at the funeral home and parish.

What happens next

Calling hours are set for Oct. 19, 2026, from 4-8 p.m. at Rock Funeral Home, followed by funeral services on Oct. 20, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Saint Gabriel the Archangel Parish.