20-year-old Massachusetts woman charged after double fatal crash that killed 19- and 20-year-olds

A 20-year-old woman was arraigned in Worcester Superior Court today on charges related to a December 2025 fatal single vehicle crash in Barre that resulted in the death of two passengers, according to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early, Jr.

Faith O’Rourke, of North Brookfield, was arraigned on two counts of involuntary manslaughter, two counts of manslaughter by motor vehicle, two counts of motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, two counts of motor vehicle homicide by operating under the influence and reckless operation, one count of operating under the influence, and one count of negligent operation of a motor vehicle.

Bail was set at $5,000 with conditions that O’Rourke have no contact with and stay away from the victims’ families and any witnesses, refrain from driving, remain alcohol-free, and submit to random screenings.

The charges are in connection with a December 26, 2025, crash where a BMW, driven by
O’Rourke, exited the roadway on Hubbardston Road in Barre. As a result of the crash, two
passengers in the BMW, 20-year-old Connor Post and 19-year-old Michael Publicover, died.

A Meal Train had been organized for the family of Publicover who was a high school football standout.

A GoFundMe fundraiser had been organized for the family of Post who was described as the best friend anyone could ask for.

The crash remains under investigation by the Barre Police Department, Mass. State
Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, State Police Collision Analysis & Reconstruction Section (CARS), and the Office of the Chief Medical
Examiner.