Independent Investigation into Multi-Vehicle Crash Involving New Bedford City Officials Completed
Bristol County District Attorney’s Office
Thomas M. Quinn III
District Attorney
Press Release
June 1, 2021
A Massachusetts State Police Detective assigned to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III’s office has concluded his investigation into the May 1st multi-vehicle crash involving New Bedford City Councilor Hugh Dunn.
On that date at approximately 1:23 A.M., New Bedford Police officers responded to the area of South Water Street after receiving a 911 call reporting a possible hit-and-run crash. When police responded, they located Dunn in his Hyundai Genesis some distance from a damaged Chevy pickup truck and Toyota RAV4.
The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office agreed to conduct an independent investigation after consultation with Acting New Bedford Police Chief, Paul Oliveira. After gathering all available evidence and interviewing witnesses connected to the case, Mr. Dunn has been issued a citation for several motor vehicle-related offenses. An application for a criminal complaint has been made this afternoon to the New Bedford Clerk Magistrate in New Bedford District Court for the following offenses:
- Operating a Motor Vehicle While Under the Influence
- Leaving the Scene of Property Damage
- Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Based on the circumstances of the original investigation, a Special Prosecutor will be appointed to handle the prosecution of this case. The special prosecutor appointed is Attorney Daniel Bennett, a former Massachusetts state prosecutor.
Due to the ongoing nature of this case and the appointment of a special prosecutor, our office will be unable to provide any further comment.
Contact:
Gregg Miliote
Director of Communications
774-292-9576