Massachusetts woman allegedly killed by motorcycle rider in hit and run remembered as veteran, wonderful human being

A Massachusetts woman allegedly killed by a motorcycle rider in a hit and run is being remembered tonight as a suspect is facing charges.

On Sunday, at just after 8:30 p.m., Methuen Police responded to the area of 471 Lowell St. for the report of an individual found lying in the roadway by a passerby.

Methuen Police Officer Michael Cabral arrived on scene to multiple people flagging down his cruiser and observed an individual lying face down on the side of the road by 471 1⁄2 Lowell St. Officer Cabral immediately began administering medical aid to the victim until Methuen Fire Department paramedics arrived on scene.

The victim, 62-year-old Pamela O’Neil of Methuen, was transported to Lawrence General Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. 

Martin Quinlan, of Andover is facing charges in the fatal hit-and-run. 

As part of the ongoing investigation, Methuen Police obtained video surveillance from the area which showed a motorcycle, traveling at a high rate of speed, and striking the victim. The motorcycle operator then slowed down and stopped before continuing down the road.

Fall River Reporter contacted Pamela’s daughter Erin if there was a way we could help the family. She then reluctantly created a GoFundMe fundraiser with a touching tribute to her mother.

“She was a wife, a mother, and just an all-around wonderful human being. She lit up every room she entered and knew how to make anyone laugh. She served in the US Army, and she was the first woman in Essex County to receive her wings from the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg. She loved animals, writing poetry, trivia, paintball and the New England Patriots especially Brady, Edelman and Gronk. She would dress in full patriots gear all the way down to the jewelry every single Sunday. She was a great mother and a great friend. Life is not going to be the same without her here with us.”

The incident remains under investigation by the Methuen Criminal Investigations Bureau with Detective William Kannan as the lead investigator with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section (CARS).