From Backstage to Center Stage: New Bedford Grieves Man Who Cheered for Everyone

The city of New Bedford is grieving the loss of a man whose life touched many through his music, friendship, and quiet but steady support for others. Anthony Moniz, 62, was killed Wednesday morning in a tragic highway crash on Interstate 195 in Dartmouth.

The crash happened just before noon, when police say three vehicles — including a tractor-trailer — collided on I-195 West. When first responders arrived, Moniz was pronounced dead at the scene. The highway was shut down for several hours while investigators worked to understand what led to the accident.

The news of his passing spread quickly through the community, especially among New Bedford’s tight-knit music scene, where Moniz had made a name for himself not just as a musician, but as a deeply kind and uplifting presence.

More Than Just a Musician

To those who knew him, Tony — as his friends called him — was more than just a man with talent. He was the guy who always showed up, even if he wasn’t playing that night. The guy who offered words of encouragement when someone was struggling. The guy who gave hugs, smiled big, and made people feel like they mattered.

“Tony was that friend you might not see every day, but when you did, he made you feel seen,” said his longtime friend and fellow musician, Jimmy James. “He saw me at some of my lowest points and encouraged me to keep going. He wasn’t flashy. He didn’t make it about him. He just wanted people to succeed.”

That quiet support made him a favorite among the city’s performers and creatives — someone whose presence made you feel safe, appreciated, and inspired.

“He Just Made You Feel Good”

Tony’s warmth wasn’t reserved for his closest circle — it extended to everyone he met. Friends say he had a way of greeting people that was instantly disarming: a big bear hug, sometimes a kiss on the cheek, and always a sincere smile.

“He just made you feel good,” said local singer Maria Delgado. “Even if you were having a rough day, five minutes with Tony could turn things around. He didn’t try to fix everything — he just reminded you that you weren’t alone.”

His musical talent was undeniable, but those who knew him say it was his heart that made him stand out. Tony didn’t just play music — he lived it. He felt it deeply, and he shared that feeling with everyone in the room.

An Unexpected Goodbye

For many, the suddenness of his death is still hard to process.

“It just doesn’t seem real,” said James. “He was just at one of our shows a couple weeks ago, clapping and cheering like always. You don’t think the last time you hug someone is going to be the last time.”

As the investigation into the crash continues, friends and family are left clinging to memories and leaning on each other for support. Plans for a memorial or celebration of Tony’s life are expected in the coming days, and his loved ones hope it will be filled with the same warmth and music that he brought into the world.

A Legacy That Lives On

Anthony Moniz didn’t seek the spotlight, but somehow, he always stood out. He lifted people up, quietly and consistently, and in doing so, left a lasting mark on a community that’s now feeling his absence deeply.

“He wasn’t famous. He didn’t have a million followers,” James said. “But I don’t think I know anyone who was more loved.”

As New Bedford comes together to remember him, one thing is clear: Tony’s music may have stopped, but his rhythm lives on — in the lives he touched, the friends he lifted, and the love he gave so freely.