Rhode Island bicyclist killed in Massachusetts crash remembered as driver issued criminal citation

A Rhode Island man who was killed in Massachusetts this week while riding his bicycle is being remembered.

According to police, on Monday, at approximately 12:45 p.m., the Bellingham Police and Fire Departments responded to the area of 120 South Main Street for a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a bicyclist. 

Upon arrival, first responders located the bicyclist, who had sustained critical injuries. Bellingham Fire personnel provided on-scene medical care before transporting the individual to Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, RI, where he was later pronounced deceased. The operator of the involved vehicle remained at the scene, was evaluated by Bellingham Fire personnel, and was subsequently transported to Milford Regional Medical Center. 

The victim has been identified as a 60-year-old Robert “Rob” Gauthier from Woonsocket, RI. The operator of the vehicle has been identified as a juvenile from Sutton, MA.

Following the initial investigation, the juvenile has been issued a criminal citation for Motor Vehicle Homicide, Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Marked Lanes Violation.

According to an obituary, Gauthier’s faith was central to his life. “He spent his time enjoying each day and did his part to make the world a better place for everyone he met. Rob was dedicated to his exercise regimen including walking, riding his bike, lifting weights.” He also enjoyed to fish and play pool.

Everyone is welcome to gather to remember, honor and pray for Rob at his funeral Wednesday June 18th at 9:00 a.m. from the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home 127 Carrington Ave. Woonsocket followed by a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated for the repose of Rob’s soul at 10:00 a.m. in St. Joseph Church, 1200 Mendon Rd. Woonsocket. Rob will be laid to rest in the family lot at Resurrection Cemetery in Cumberland. Visiting hours are Tuesday June 17th from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

The crash is under investigation by Bellingham Police Accident Reconstruction Officer Ryan Gonthier, with assistance from the Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council Accident Reconstruction Unit and the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.