PLAINVILLE, Mass. – A tragic incident unfolded on Route 1 in Plainville, Massachusetts, resulting in the death of a 10-year-old boy in a collision involving a vehicle that was stolen from Gillette Stadium. The suspect, identified as Michael Escolas, 42, of Oxford, allegedly took a Jeep Grand Cherokee from a parking lot at Gillette during a Kenny Chesney concert.
According to Massachusetts State Police, Escolas was driving at a high speed on Route 1 when he crashed into a Nissan Altima carrying a family of six at a red light near Interstate 495. The collision left the family with serious injuries, and the young boy succumbed to his injuries. The State Police report revealed that Escolas was disoriented, claiming he was on Route 146 in Millbury and driving his wife’s car.
Following his arrest at the Foxborough barracks, Escolas was recorded on the phone expressing remorse to his wife, saying, “Still, still one too many, one too many. Messed up.” He is now awaiting arraignment in Wrentham District Court on various charges, including motor vehicle manslaughter with OUI liquor, larceny of a motor vehicle, and multiple counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
In the aftermath of the fatal crash, additional collisions occurred at the intersection, involving three more vehicles. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in those incidents. Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey commended the efforts of various agencies that responded to the chaotic scene, providing assistance in evacuating the injured to area hospitals.
Escolas’ arraignment is scheduled for Monday, with bail set at $25,000. The tragic events have shaken the community and raised concerns about the dangers of reckless driving and the devastating impact it can have on innocent lives. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and are working to bring justice to the victims and their families affected by this heartbreaking incident.