Driver Charged in Crash that Killed Police Officer and National Grid Worker Appears in Court: Roderick Jackson Identified as Victim

Driver Charged in Crash That Killed Police Officer and National Grid Worker Appears in Court

In a tragic accident that occurred on Wednesday, a National Grid worker and a veteran Waltham police officer lost their lives after being struck by a car. The National Grid worker has been identified as Roderick Jackson, a 36-year-old from Cambridge.

According to investigators, the incident took place on Totten Pond Road, where Jackson and two other National Grid employees were working alongside Waltham police officer Paul Tracey, who was serving as construction detail. Peter Simon, a 54-year-old from Woodsville, New Hampshire, attempted to make a U-turn and collided with an oncoming car. Shockingly, Simon fled the scene, but not before fatally hitting Jackson and Tracey. Another National Grid worker was taken to the hospital for treatment.

After the crash, Simon allegedly stole a police cruiser at knifepoint and was later apprehended half a mile away following another collision. He appeared in Waltham District Court on Thursday and was charged with several offenses, including failure to stop for police, larceny of a motor vehicle, armed robbery, and two counts of manslaughter. Simon pleaded not guilty to all the charges, and a judge ordered him to be held until a hearing next week.

National Grid released a statement expressing their deep sadness over the loss of their team member. They stated that their immediate focus is on providing support to Jackson’s family, loved ones, and colleagues. As the investigation is still ongoing, the company declined to provide further comments at this time.

This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the risks faced by those who work on the roads, as well as the dangers posed by reckless driving. The loss of Jackson and Tracey has undoubtedly left a void in the Waltham community, and their memories will be cherished. The court proceedings will continue next week as the investigation into this devastating crash continues.