For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016

Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Newburyport Police Charge Juvenile in Connection with Fatal Pedestrian Incident in November

Newburyport Man, 77, was Killed Nov. 23 while CrossingState Street

NEWBURYPORT — City Marshal Mark Murray reports that the Newburyport Police Department has filed charges against a juvenile after an investigation into a Nov. 23 motor vehicle crash that killed a local man.

A JUVENILE MALE, AGE 17, OF BOXFORD has been cited with the following charges:

• Motor Vehicle Homicide by Negligent Operation
• Texting and Being Negligent Causing Injury to Another
• Operator under Age of 18 Use of Mobile Phone (Civil Infraction)
• Texting while Driving (Civil Infraction)

The suspect’s name is not being release because of his age.

Shortly before 1:30 p.m. on Nov 23, Newburyport Police and Fire responded to State Street for reports of a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle. The victim, Richard Barbieri, age 77, of Newburyport, sustained serious injuries. He was taken to a local hospital where he later died.

“This is a tragic situation for all involved. The law prohibits juvenile operators from using their mobile phones for any reason while driving,” Marshal Murray said. “All drivers should put their phones down and focus on the task at hand while driving.”

This matter will be heard before Essex County Juvenile Court-Newburyport at a later date.

These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

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