Holly MatkinCambridge, MA – Massachusetts Institute of Technology Police Department (MITPD) Sergeant Brian Sousa died unexpectedly on April 19, according to his department.
The 49-year-old sergeant’s exact cause of death was not released.
The MITPD confirmed Sgt. Sousa’s death in a Facebook post later that day.
“It is with tremendous sadness that the MIT Police Department announces the sudden passing of Sergeant Brian J. Sousa,” the post read. “Brian, you will be remembered for your friendship, leadership, your generous spirit and incredible smile.”
Sgt. Sousa graduated from Massasoit Community College with an associate’s degree in in criminal justice prior to joining the MITPD in 1999, according to his obituary.
He served the department for 23 years and worked in various roles in the Patrol Division before he was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2011, the MITPD said.
Sgt. Sousa was also “an integral part” of the agency’s Honor Guard Unit, according to the police department.
He leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Brenda, as well as his sons, Matthew and Jack, according to his obituary.
Sgt. Sousa is also survived by his mother, in-laws, nephews, nieces, uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.
“He cherished every moment with his family and was happiest when surrounded by family and friends,” the fallen sergeant’s obituary read. “He considered his family his greatest accomplishment in life and was happy as long as the boys were happy.”
Sgt. Sousa’s family said he was always “the first one to raise a glass in honor of someone else,” and that he also tended to be the first one on the dance floor.
“When he told you he loved you (which was often), he meant it with his whole heart,” the tribute read.
Sgt. Sousa will be laid to rest on April 25.
It is with tremendous sadness that the MIT Police Department announces the sudden passing of Sergeant Brian J. Sousa. Sergeant Sousa honorably served our community for 23 years and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2011. https://t.co/0hdu6EOLiN pic.twitter.com/2DGeW5KYXd
— MIT Police (@MITPolice) April 19, 2022
The men and women of #FBI Boston send our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of @MITPolice Sergeant Brian J. Sousa who passed away suddenly after serving his community for 23 years. https://t.co/IKfX057e1x
— FBI Boston (@FBIBoston) April 19, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Massachusetts Institute of Technology Police Department Sergeant Brian Sousa, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
