Local family left without answers after case for fatal I-195 crash ends

FALL RIVER, Mass. — A local family was left with unanswered questions after the man accused of killing their loved one died before his trial.

The final chapter of their tragedy played out in a Fall River courtroom Friday.

Over the last two years, Philip Imprescia’s family has been to the Fall River court house 23 times. Friday’s visit was their last.

“It hurt. It hurt bad for the whole family, especially for his four children,” Richard Imprescia told Boston 25 News.

Richard’s brother, Phillip, was driving on Interstate I-195 when an unsecured filing cabinet fell off a pick-up truck and landed in front of him.

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When Phillip swerved to avoid the cabinet, his SUV flipped and he was killed.

Dennis Pavao was transporting the filing cabinet for the office of the Bristol County District Attorney.  
Instead of stopping and owning up to what happened, Pavao kept driving.

When police questioned him days later, court documents say he lied about his involvement and ordered the two guys who were with him to keep their mouths shut.

Phillip’s family wanted to see Pavao stand trial, but that will never happen.

Pavao passed away earlier this month from a long illness.

Documents filed Friday officially ended the criminal case against him.

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“Never heard the words ‘I’m sorry’ and that would have really -- I think this case would have been seen a little bit different,” Richard said. “We’re a forgiving family, accidents happen. If he had come forward and said I’m sorry, I think it would have been a little bit better.”

Philip Imprescia was an Air Force veteran and is buried at the national cemetery in Bourne.

His family says they did everything they could to seek justice for him.

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