A police officer and a National Grid worker have tragically lost their lives after being hit by a suspect while working at a construction site in Waltham, Massachusetts. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening, leaving two other utility workers injured. The suspect, after crashing into the officer and workers, stole a police cruiser and fled the scene. However, the suspect was later apprehended after a foot chase and is now in custody.
The police officer who was killed has been identified as Paul Tracey, a 28-year veteran of the police department. The utility worker’s name has not been released pending family notification. The suspect has been identified as Peter Simon, aged 54, from Woodsville, New Hampshire. He is expected to be arraigned in Waltham District Court on Thursday morning.
You may also like to watch : Who Is Kamala Harris? Biography - Parents - Husband - Sister - Career - Indian - Jamaican Heritage
Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan emphasized the dangers faced by officers and workers in the line of duty, stating that crashes like this occur too frequently. She expressed her condolences and highlighted the tremendous sense of loss felt by the community, particularly during the holiday season.
Paul Tracey, the fallen officer, was previously recognized as a hero in 2018 for helping save the life of a woman who had overdosed on drugs on a Cape Cod beach. Waltham Police Chief Kevin O’Connell described Tracey as a compassionate officer who always looked out for the underdog. He praised him as an amazing husband, loving father, and friend to all.
The utility workers injured in the crash have been taken to a hospital for treatment, according to National Grid. The company expressed their thoughts and support for the workers and their families.
Police departments across Massachusetts have expressed their condolences to the Waltham Police Department and the loved ones of the fallen officer. Boston Police Department, Walpole Police, and Chelmsford Police changed their social media profile pictures to honor the officer, while Dracut Police described the evening as truly heartbreaking.
You may also like to watch: Is US-NATO Prepared For A Potential Nuclear War With Russia - China And North Korea?
This devastating incident serves as a tragic reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers and workers carrying out their duties on our roadways.
