Marshfield, Massachusetts – An off-duty Marshfield police officer has been placed on administrative leave and charged with felony drunk driving after allegedly causing a serious head-on crash late Sunday night. Investigators say the incident left another driver trapped in their vehicle and sent both motorists to the hospital with serious injuries.
Incident Overview
The crash occurred just after 9 p.m. on Sunday along Route 139 in Marshfield, a busy roadway that runs through residential and commercial areas. Authorities say Officer Richard Perry, who was off duty at the time, was driving a Jeep when he crossed into oncoming traffic and struck a Honda Civic head-on.
According to police, the impact caused significant damage to both vehicles and prompted an immediate emergency response from police, fire crews, and medical personnel.
Timeline of Events
Investigators allege that Perry had been speeding moments before the crash. Police say he attempted to pass another vehicle by crossing over marked lanes, placing his Jeep directly into the path of the oncoming Honda.
The violent collision occurred within seconds, leaving debris scattered across the roadway and trapping the Honda’s driver inside the wreckage. Emergency responders arrived quickly after multiple 911 calls from nearby residents.
Details From Police and Officials
Marshfield Police Chief Phillip Tavares confirmed that Perry was not on duty at the time of the crash and said the department immediately launched an internal and criminal investigation.
“This department is committed to full transparency and accountability,” Tavares said in a statement released Thursday.
“A full and complete investigation is being conducted into this incident. The fact that the operator was a police officer will not alter the scope, direction, or integrity of this investigation in any way.”
Initially, Perry was charged with reckless operation of a motor vehicle, a marked lanes violation, and speeding. After investigators reviewed additional evidence and received early findings from the case, prosecutors added a more serious charge.
Later Thursday, Perry was formally charged with felony operating under the influence of alcohol while causing serious bodily injury. Officials noted that additional charges were considered pending toxicology results.
Witness Accounts
Residents living near Route 139 described a frightening scene in the moments after the crash. Michael Torchetti, who lives nearby, said he heard the collision from inside his home.
“It sounded like an explosion,” Torchetti said.
Torchetti and several neighbors rushed outside to help but quickly realized the situation was extremely dangerous.
“We backed off because we could see there were flames coming out of the dashboard,” he explained.
Witnesses said the fire risk and severe damage made it impossible for civilians to safely remove the trapped driver before firefighters arrived.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Officer involved: Richard Perry
- Location: Route 139, Marshfield, Massachusetts
- Time: Just after 9 p.m., Sunday
- Vehicles: Jeep and Honda Civic
- Charges: Felony OUI causing serious bodily injury, reckless operation, speeding
- Injuries: Serious but not life-threatening
- Employment status: Administrative leave
Rescue and Medical Response
Marshfield firefighters used specialized equipment to free the Honda’s driver, who was trapped inside the vehicle due to the force of the impact. Both drivers were transported to area hospitals for treatment.
Chief Tavares confirmed that although the injuries were serious, they were not considered life-threatening. The condition of the victims has not been publicly updated since the initial reports.
Additional Context on Accountability
In a follow-up statement, Chief Tavares addressed the seriousness of the allegations and the department’s response.
“To the victims and their families, I want to express my sincere concern and sympathy for what you have endured as a result of this incident,” he said.
“Violations of the law or department policy is unacceptable and will not be tolerated by this Department.”
According to information shared on the Marshfield Police Department’s official Facebook page, Perry joined the department as a full-time officer in 2022. The case has drawn public attention due to the involvement of a law enforcement officer and the severity of the alleged offense, as noted in a report by WBZ-TV.
Safety and Awareness
Authorities are using the incident to remind drivers about the dangers of impaired and aggressive driving. Police emphasize that crossing into oncoming lanes, especially at high speeds, dramatically increases the risk of fatal collisions.
Officials also stress that operating a vehicle under the influence endangers not only the driver but everyone else on the road, regardless of profession or status.
Conclusion
The investigation into the Route 139 crash remains ongoing as prosecutors and police continue to review evidence and toxicology results. Meanwhile, Officer Richard Perry remains on administrative leave while facing serious criminal charges that could carry significant legal consequences.
If you witnessed the crash or have concerns about road safety in your community, local authorities encourage you to speak up. Share your experiences in the comments below.
