Eastman graduate and dedicated volunteer died Wednesday in car crash involving stolen car

BRIGHTON, NY — After a chase involving a stolen car in Brighton ended in a fatal crash, community members are mourning the loss of the victim – 92-year-old Thomas Chase.

Three teenagers – including a 17-year-old on parole – sped away from Rochester police officers in the stolen Kia before crashing at the corner of East Avenue and Linden Avenue on Wednesday afternoon.

Police Chief David Smith said he went to Chase's car at the crime scene Thursday morning and said the Lord's Prayer.

“I prayed the Lord's Prayer for Mr. Chase because no one was with him. No one but us,” Smith said.

Chase died at the scene of the accident.

According to police, Chase was a graduate of the Eastman School of Music and was involved in community volunteering. News10NBC learned he shared his musical talents with the folks at Friendly Senior Living after some family members were placed there.

“Tom's music and presence were key elements that made Friendly Home a warm and welcoming place to live,” says Denise Hubler of Friendly Senior Living. “Generations of residents have looked forward to his regular concerts to immerse themselves in familiar and beautifully performed music, relive special memories, and pause for a moment to enjoy life's many gifts. His talents were a treasure and his kind, generous spirit was an inspiration to all who knew Tom.”

Chase volunteered in music programs twice a week, played piano at different locations each month, and even gave a special one-hour classical piano performance once a month.

Chase dedicated nearly 5,000 hours of his time to Friendly Senior Living.

“As if his music programs weren't enough, Tom went even further to make other special connections with the residents. Not only did Tom volunteer his musical talents at the Friendly Home, but he was also very generous in sharing his interest in genealogy with the residents,” says Hubler.