Manchester Police Lose Detective to Untimely Death

The said goodbye to one of its own on Monday at a memorial service for Detective David Wayne Prouty, 37, who died on May 24, reportedly of complications from surgery.

Fellow officers, firefighters, city employees, and members of the community joined Prouty’s friends and family to celebrate the life and work of the veteran police officer. Prouty, who joined the department in 1997, was hailed as an accomplished problem solver and peacemaker whose diligent, dependable work led to his promotion to detective in January of 2009.

Manchester Chief of Police Tim Walsh, who worked with Prouty throughout his 13 years on the force, called the detective a “capable and competent investigator…who always did his best.” He cited Prouty’s ability as a “peace officer,” who would make arrests when necessary, but who in many cases helped those involved in conflict resolve their issues without taking official action.

Walsh also commended Prouty’s willingness to seek out additional responsibilities and training, including coordination of the firing range and becoming a master tazer trainer and technician who traveled the country teaching other police departments how to safely and effectively use the weapon.

Lieutenant Bob Fritschle spoke Monday of his co-worker’s deadpan sense of humor and the sayings that became known around the department as “Davidisms.” Referring to Prouty as a man whose heart was as big as he was, Fritschle called him a “man of character” who had a passion for the outdoors.

An avid fan of hunting and fishing, Detective Prouty was also a licensed pilot.

On June 16, Prouty would have served on the  for 14 years. 

He is survived by his wife, Holli , and four children.

*Editor's Note: The author of this article, Kim Smith, is a blogger for Town and Country-Manchester Patch. in the site's Local Voices section.