Ted Takacs, Motorcyclist Injured in August Hit-and-Run, Has Died

Ted Takacs, 79, who was seriously injured Aug. 22 in a hit-and-run accident on the Everett Turnpike, died November 26, according to his wife, Elizabeth Takacs.

She said her husband came home on November 22 from rehab, where he'd been recovering since shortly after the accident.

"He had wonderful visits with old friends, went to a few of his old hangouts – he was an amazing man who did not think he was at all amazing," Elizabeth Takacs said. "Saturday and Sunday morning were also wonderful."

He collapsed of an apparent heart attack Sunday morning, although official cause of death has not been determined and an autopsy may be ordered by authorities to see if his death is related to the accident, Elizabeth Takacs said.

But she believes her husband was just tired of the fight.

"We are not really sure what happened. After our morning routine he went to sit on the porch – I thought to have a smoke. I stepped away for but a moment, and found him on the floor."

Takacs had no memory of the Oct. 22 accident after regaining consciousness. He had just left the Dunkin' Donuts on West Hollis Street around 10 a.m., riding his motorcycle with the side car on his way to the Everett Turnpike at Exit 5, bound for RJ Motorsports. But just as he got onto the ramp, Takacs was sideswiped by a black Chevy SUV. He tumbled from his bike and landed on the highway where he was left for dead.

On Sept. 20 State Police arrested Benjamin Tucker, 23, and Michael Fawcett, 47, both of Nashua, charged in connection with the accident.

One of the two, Fawcett, is the same man arrested for robbing the Lake Street Market just minutes after the hit-and-run accident, state police confirmed.
Tucker was arrested again on Oct. 19, for the theft of a television. He was also charged with a similar theft in July.

Although the arrests brought a little closure to the situation, Takacs was struggling to regain his independence, frustrated that his life would be forever changed.

"He didn't much like people taking care of him, including me," Elizabeth Takacs said.

His daughter, Julie Takacs, said Tuesday night that the past few months had been a difficult journey for the entire family.

"He was an amazing man and he has a lot of friends and family all around who loved him. He definitely tried his hardest to fight through this. None of us expected this outcome," she said.

We'll bring you more information, including any memorial services, as soon as it's available.

Related Stories:

Aug. 22: Motorcyclist Injured in Hit-and-Run on the Everett Turnpike

Oct. 29: Slow Road to Recovery for Hit-and-Run Victim Ted Takacs