Shawn Oliver, a New Bedford city councillor and Republican candidate for Massachusetts lieutenant governor, has been arrested after police said his SUV overturned and struck several parked cars in an alleged drink-driving crash.
The collision happened at about 11.40pm on Saturday on Dartmouth Street in New Bedford. Police said five cars were involved, with two suffering extensive damage.
Oliver was taken to St Luke’s Hospital for treatment before being arrested following investigations at the crash scene and the hospital.
He faces charges of operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, a marked-lanes violation and speeding.
Mike Minogue, the Republican candidate for governor and Oliver’s running mate, has called on him to suspend his campaign.
“I am extremely disappointed. Shawn is lucky to be alive and lucky that no one innocent was hurt. There is no excuse for driving under the influence,” Mr Minogue said.
“After speaking with Shawn, I am asking him to suspend his campaign immediately, and when elected, I will formally ask for his resignation. Shawn is a father and grandfather, and he needs to put his family first. He needs to do the work to ensure this never happens again. If he needs help with that, I will help him.”
Amy Carnevale, chairwoman of the Massachusetts Republican Party, said the organisation was awaiting further information about the crash.
New Bedford mayor Jon Mitchell, a Democrat, said the public deserved an explanation from Mr Oliver. He said: “The allegations against Councilor Oliver are deeply concerning, and the public deserves to hear his explanation of what happened.”
Mr Oliver represents Ward 3 on New Bedford City Council. He and Mr Minogue are running against Democratic incumbents Maura Healey and Kim Driscoll, with election day scheduled for Tuesday November 3.
