Pregnant suspect dead after slamming SUV into Sturbridge hotel and opening fire, police say – Boston News, Weather, Sports
A woman in her late 20s who was eight months pregnant died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound after driving her SUV into the Sturbridge Plaza Hotel and shooting a bystander early Thursday morning, according to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office. The victim of the shooting remains in critical condition at UMass Lakeside.
How did the medical emergency unfold?
Responding officers and EMS arrived at 400 Haynes Street at approximately 1 a.m. after reports of a vehicle crashing into the hotel and shots being fired. Police stated the suspect drove into the building while searching for two known individuals and shot an innocent bystander during the incident.
The shooting victim was initially transported to Harrington Hospital. Medical staff later flew the patient to UMass Lakeside, where they remain in critical condition. Investigators noted that the victim was not one of the people the suspect was seeking.
What were the outcomes for the suspect?
Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early stated that officers tried to talk with the suspect before she fired her weapon again. This second discharge resulted in a self-inflicted wound.
EMS personnel performed “extensive” life-saving measures on the scene. Despite these efforts, the woman was pronounced dead at the location. Her identity has not been released.
Why is this case considered complicated?
District Attorney Joseph Early described the case as “very complicated.” He noted that domestic violence statute laws prevent officials from discussing many aspects of the investigation at this time.
A hotel guest, Stuart Mackelvie, reported waking up to a car alarm and seeing “massive flash” as the suspect fired rapidly into the hotel. He stated he had never been near such an event.
What happens next in the investigation?
The investigation is likely to involve coordinated efforts between several agencies. The Sturbridge Police Department and Southbridge Police Department are working alongside Massachusetts State Police Detectives from the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.
Forensic analysis may be conducted by State Police Crime Scene Services and the Firearms Identification Section. The State Police Crash and Reconstruction Section (CARS) and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner are also investigating the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the shooting victim currently being treated?
The victim is in critical condition at UMass Lakeside after being transferred from Harrington Hospital.
What was the status of the suspect at the time of the incident?
The suspect was a woman in her late 20s who was eight months pregnant.
Which agencies are leading the investigation?
The investigation involves the Sturbridge and Southbridge Police Departments, the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, various Massachusetts State Police units, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
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