SAUGUS, Mass. — A Massachusetts State Police trooper was killed early Saturday morning when his cruiser was struck by a wrong-way driver on Route 1.
At approximately 2 a.m., the wrong-way driver was traveling south in a northbound lane near the Saugus/Lynnfield line, striking the responding trooper's cruiser, authorities said. The trooper, from the Danvers barracks, was transported to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The driver died at the scene. Names of the individuals have not been released.
The Massachusetts State Police issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the trooper's family, classmates, and loved ones. “The trooper struck in this morning's wrong-way crash has succumbed to his injuries,” the statement said.
Video footage from the scene revealed extensive damage to both the trooper's SUV and a Jeep. Route 1 northbound was closed at Walnut Street for several hours as crews worked to remove the vehicles and gather evidence.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey shared her sorrow in a statement, saying, “I am heartbroken by the tragic death of a Massachusetts State Police Trooper who died on the line of duty. This act of service and courage is what our State Police are called to do every day. Today, Massachusetts is mourning one of those heroes.”
An investigation into the incident is ongoing.