HOLYOKE, Massachusetts – A tragic incident unfolded over the weekend in western Massachusetts as a Chicopee firefighter was charged with the stabbing death of his girlfriend. The Hampden District Attorney’s Office reported that the 52-year-old Jason Chapdelaine of Springfield was arrested and charged with murder following the incident.
The unfortunate event took place around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday when Holyoke police responded to a 911 call on South Water Street. Upon their arrival, officers found a man and a woman at the scene. The woman, identified as 48-year-old Eileen Monaghan from Chicopee, had been fatally stabbed, while the man had inflicted self-harm and was unresponsive.
Chapdelaine appeared in Holyoke District Court for his arraignment on Tuesday and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was ordered to be held without bail pending further court proceedings scheduled for May 13. The accused firefighter was confirmed to be on unpaid leave by the Chicopee mayor’s office following his arrest.
Hampden County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Monaghan, the victim, was an executive assistant to Sheriff Nick Cocchi and a mother of two. She previously served as the chief of staff to state Rep. Joseph Wagner. The sheriff expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a cherished colleague, describing Monaghan as a beloved and generous individual.
Monaghan’s untimely death has left a lasting impact on her family, including her daughters and a wide circle of relatives spanning across western Massachusetts and Ireland. The community mourns the loss of a remarkable individual known for her dedication and kindness.