Wellesley Police Investigate Pedestrian Accident

The Wellesley Police Department is investigating a pedestrian accident that occurred in front of police headquarters on Washington Street early Thursday night.  At approximately 6:49 PM on November 5, 2009 Wellesley Police dispatchers Patrick Goodwin and Kathy Connors noticed something wrong in front of the police station while watching the security cameras.  Moments later, a civilian came into the station reporting that a female had been struck by a car in the crosswalk in front of the police station.

Detective Steve Atwood and Sergeant Scott Whittemore, who were inside the police station at the time, ran outside to render assistance.  The pair found a 70 year old Wellesley resident with serious injuries after being struck by a motor vehicle.  While first aid was rendered to the victim, Officer Timothy Dennehy immediately began an investigation. 

AMR paramedics with the fire department continued treatment of the victim, and Boston Med Flight was requested to transport the victim.  However, the helicopter was unable to respond due to weather considerations.  The victim was then transported by AMR to a Boston hospital.

Due to the nature of the crash, the Wellesley Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction (CAR) unit responded to the scene.  This unit has extensive, advanced training in investigating accidents, as well as specialized equipment to do so.  Sergeant Scott Showstead, Officer Mark Carrasquillo, Officer Tim Dennehy, and Officer Mike Gerard are all members of the unit, and participated in the investigation. 

While the investigation was ongoing, Washington Street was closed from State Street to Wellesley Ave.  Officer Chris Connelly, Officer Lamar Hughes, Special Officers Burke and Yeagle assisted in detouring the evening commuters to the side roads and around the scene.  Closing the street ensures that the scene itself remains intact and preserved, a critical element in any proper investigation and allows officers to work safely.

Preliminary findings reveal that a Land Rover LR3 vehicle was traveling westbound on Washington Street.  The victim was attempting to cross Washington Street near the driveway to the police station.  The victim was in the crosswalk at the time she was struck by the vehicle.  Her injuries are serious, but not life threatening.

The investigation will be continued by the Wellesley Police Department's Collision Analysis and Reconstruction unit.