Classmate of slain Trooper injured in second wrong-way crash — State Police Association of Massachusetts issues update

The State Police Association of Massachusetts is commending the courage and dedication displayed by one of their members during a dangerous wrong-way driver incident today in the early morning hours in Peabody.

According to SPAM, “shortly before 2:00 a.m., a Trooper assigned to the Danvers Barracks observed a vehicle traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of Route 1. Recognizing the immediate threat to public safety, the Trooper quickly notified the barracks and responding patrols. Together, they coordinated efforts to prevent additional motorists from entering the roadway and to bring the situation to a safe conclusion.

“During the response, the wrong-way driver struck a marked State Police cruiser occupied by one of the responding Troopers. That Trooper was a member of the 88th Recruit Training Troop and a classmate of Trooper Kevin Trainor, who tragically lost his life earlier this month after being struck by a wrong-way driver while serving the Commonwealth. Fully aware of the dangers such incidents present, the Trooper responded with unwavering courage, professionalism, and selflessness, placing himself in harm’s way to protect others without hesitation.

“Both the Trooper and the operator of the vehicle were transported to a local hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

“The operator, a 41-year-old man from Newburyport, was subsequently charged with Operating Under the Influence of Liquor, Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Operating a Motor Vehicle the Wrong Way on a State Highway.”

The State Police Association of Massachusetts noted that they “are grateful that this incident did not result in a more tragic outcome and extend our wishes for a full and speedy recovery to our injured Trooper. His actions exemplify the commitment, bravery, and sacrifice demonstrated every day by the men and women of the Massachusetts State Police in service to the Commonwealth.”