Family Seeks Answers in Millis Crash Involving Police Officer
MILLIS, Mass. — On June 2017, a car crash involving Millis Police Officer Craig Thompson resulted in the death of Gary Kaufman, prompting ongoing inquiries from his daughter.
Kaufman, driving a black pickup truck, was struck while turning left near Route 109. He was 59 years old. Officer Thompson sustained injuries to his left arm.
According to records, Thompson pursued a motorcycle allegedly speeding at 85 mph when he collided with Kaufman's vehicle. Witnesses reported that Kaufman was arriving to visit family.
The police report attributes fault to Kaufman, indicating he failed to yield to the emergency vehicle. It also notes that his blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit, along with THC and benzodiazepines present in his system.
Authorities revealed that Thompson did not communicate his pursuit on the police radio, violating departmental policy. A crash reconstruction report indicated Thompson's vehicle reached speeds of 81 mph at impact, while Kaufman was traveling at 13 mph.
An eyewitness who was behind Kaufman is documented in police records but reportedly was never interviewed. Furthermore, the motorcycle never has been located.
Retired Boston Police Lieutenant Tom Nolan criticized the investigation as “sloppy,” mentioning delays in seeking surveillance video and insufficient follow-up interviews.
Millis Police have not provided additional comments, stating the Massachusetts State Police handled the investigation. The DA's office declined to comment on specific aspects of the case.