Massachusetts driver accused of using cellphone in hit-and-run crash that dragged and seriously injured bicyclist

A Massachusetts driver is being charged after allegedly using a cellphone during a hit-and-run crash that seriously injured a bicyclist.

According to Charlton Police, shortly after 1:00 a.m. July 16, 2022, the Charlton Police Department received calls reporting a motor vehicle crash on Route 20 (Worcester Road-Westbound) in the area of the 101.9-mile marker. The calling party reported that a motorist had struck a bicyclist, that the bicyclist was stuck under the vehicle and dragged under the vehicle. It was further reported that the motorist then fled the scene of the crash. Emergency personnel from the Charlton Police Department and Charlton Fire Department responded to the area, where they located a bicyclist with serious injuries. The victim was transported by the Charlton Fire Department to the University of Massachusetts Medical Center-University Campus for treatment of serious traumatic injuries.

After an extensive investigation by members of the Charlton Police Department the vehicle involved in the crash was located and the operator of the vehicle was identified. As a result of the investigation Nery J. Castillo, a 29-year-old resident of Charlton, was charged with Improper Use of a Mobile Device, Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury Crash, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Crash, and Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (Motor Vehicle).

On August 25, 2022, Castillo was arraigned in the Dudley District Court on the above charges and the investigation remains ongoing at this time regarding individuals who may have assisted Castillo following the crash.

The investigation was conducted by the Charlton Police Department, with assistance from the Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council’s Crash Reconstruction Unit, New England State Police Information Network, and the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.