Peabody, MA – June 4, 2023 – A wrong-way crash involving a Massachusetts State Police cruiser on Route 1 early Sunday morning resulted in injuries to both the trooper and another driver.
The incident occurred shortly before 2 a.m. in Peabody. Authorities confirmed that the trooper, not publicly named, was in the same police academy class as the late Trooper Kevin Trainor, who was killed in a similar crash just weeks earlier.
Lucas Gustavo Brajak DeAlmeida Benedetto, 41, of Newburyport, is charged with Operating Under the Influence (OUI), negligent driving, and driving the wrong way on a state highway. He also sustained injuries but has since been released from the hospital.
Both individuals were transported to the hospital following the crash, which involved two vehicles. Trooper's union representatives praised the trooper's response during the event, highlighting his dedication to public safety.
Benedetto is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday. It remains unclear whether he has legal representation.
The recent series of wrong-way crashes has heightened awareness and prompted legislative discussions regarding improved safety measures on Massachusetts roadways. State Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr noted that similar systems in Connecticut reduced wrong-way incidents by 86%.
Massachusetts State Police continue to investigate the incident.
For More Information
Stay informed on this developing story as details emerge.