Plainville MA Accident: A man is scheduled to appear in court on Monday following a tragic crash on Route 1 in Plainville, Massachusetts, which resulted in the death of a 10-year-old boy. The collision involved a stolen vehicle and has left the community in mourning.
Details of the Crash
According to Massachusetts State Police, 42-year-old Michael Escolas of Oxford stole a Jeep Grand Cherokee from a Vermont couple parked at Gillette Stadium, where a Kenny Chesney concert was underway. Escolas was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed when he lost control of the vehicle. The stolen Jeep collided with a Nissan Altima at the intersection of Route 1 and Interstate 495, where the family vehicle was stopped at a red light. The Nissan was carrying a mother, father, and their four children. All six occupants of the Nissan sustained serious injuries and were transported to area hospitals.
Fatalities and Injuries
Tragically, a 10-year-old boy from the Nissan was pronounced dead later at the hospital. The other family members remain hospitalized, and their conditions have not been publicly disclosed. Following the initial collision, three additional cars were involved in subsequent crashes at the same intersection. Fortunately, the occupants of these vehicles were not injured.
Suspect’s Statement and Legal Proceedings
After the crash, Escolas was taken into custody and was escorted from the State Police Barracks in Foxborough on Sunday. When approached by NewsCenter 5’s Ted Wayman, Escolas expressed his remorse, saying, “I’m so sorry. I have a 10-year-old boy, too.” Escolas faces multiple charges, including motor vehicle manslaughter – OUI (Operating Under the Influence), larceny of a motor vehicle, and other associated charges. He remains in custody with a $25,000 cash bail and is expected to be arraigned on Monday in Wrentham District Court.
Emergency Response and Community Impact
Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey praised the collaborative efforts of various agencies that responded to the chaotic scene. “Dealing with this chaotic scene and evacuating seven people to area hospitals required the help and participation of many partner agencies,” Morrissey said. He extended his gratitude to the Plainville Police, Massachusetts State Police, and fire and ambulance units from surrounding towns, including North Attleboro, Wrentham, Foxborough, Mansfield, and Franklin. Morrissey also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, stating, “I offer my thanks to all who responded and my sincere condolences to the family who lost their son.”
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the crash and Escolas’ actions continues as authorities work to piece together the details surrounding the fatal accident. The community remains in shock as they process the tragic loss and await further developments in the case.
