81-year-old Massachusetts man released on personal recognizance concerning wrong-way crash that killed 18-year-old

GLOUCESTER, Mass. – July 29, 2025 – Laurence Hayes, 81, of Reading was arraigned today in connection to a crash that occurred on the A. Piatt Andrew Bridge on Route 128 in Gloucester at approximately 1:30 a.m. on June 30, the Office of Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker confirms. Hayes was charged with motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, a felony, and two civil motor vehicle infractions. He pled not guilty in Gloucester District Court before the Hon. Michael A. Patten and was released on personal recognizance with the conditions of home confinement with GPS monitoring and no driving.

Authorities allege Hayes, the operator and sole occupant of his 2020 Honda CRV, was driving northbound in a southbound lane when his vehicle struck a 2011 Toyota Corolla traveling southbound. The Corolla was operated by a 19-year-old female and also contained another 19-year-old female passenger and two 18-year-old male passengers. All individuals involved in the crash were transported to area hospitals. One of the occupants of the Corolla, Christopher Dailey, 18, of Gloucester, passed away on July 4 as a result of the severe injuries that he sustained. The other three teens in the Corolla were also Gloucester residents.

The Gloucester Police Department and Gloucester Fire Department responded to the crash. In addition to the Office of the Essex County District Attorney, the incident is under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police (MSP) Troop A Detectives, MSP Danvers, MSP Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, MSP Crime Scene Services Section, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

According to a GoFundMe fundraiser, “Chris had an infectious smile that lit up every room and a personality that brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. He was the “life of the party”, the dependable friend, the loving son and brother, and the kind of young man you never forget. Chris was more than just a great athlete and student; he was a generous soul who never hesitated to lend a hand. Whether he was mowing his grandmother’s lawn, mentoring younger athletes, helping a friend in need, or volunteering his time, Chris gave freely and wholeheartedly. He was excited to begin his college journey at Coastal Carolina this fall, and he had so much to look forward to. In his final act of generosity, Chris became an organ donor, saving five lives and giving five families a future they might not have had. That selfless gift is a reflection of the kind of person he was: caring, courageous, and full of heart.”

In Gloucester District Court today, Assistant District Attorney Patrick Collins handled the arraignment on behalf of the Commonwealth. Hayes was represented by attorney Robert Sheketoff. Hayes is scheduled to return to court for a pretrial hearing on September 23.

All suspects and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.