BEVERLY — Patrice Tierney, the wife of Congressman John Tierney, was injured in a car accident this morning. She was treated at Beverly Hospital for undisclosed injuries and was released at about noon. She is now at home recovering, according to the campaign.
Tierney's vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle sometime between 8 and 9 a.m., according to Tierney campaign manager Matt Robison. It is unclear where the accident occurred.
"It was a pretty significant collision," Robison said in an interview.
Because of the extent of the damage, first responders were worried that the congressman's wife's injuries were more extensive, he said.
Medics were "worried about what kind of shape she was in. It appeared at first her injuries could be significant," Robison said. "Thankfully, after checking her out, it appears that wearing her seat belt saved her from a lot of damage."
Robison said an off-duty firefighter driving in a vehicle in front of Patrice Tierney saw the collision. pulled over and called 911.
"From what John (Tierney) said, she was awake and able to communicate (after the accident), but she's still in a lot of pain," Robison said.
Tierney was able to leave the vehicle under her own power after the crash, he said.
Rep. Tierney left a campaign event in Gloucester abruptly when he was informed at about 9 a.m. that his wife had been injured in an accident.
Tierney was scheduled to meet with The Salem News editorial board this afternoon, but postponed that meeting due to his wife's accident.
“We are reviewing the congressman's schedule for the next couple of days and will adjust it accordingly so that he can care for his wife,” Robison said in an earlier statement.
"(Patrice) and Congressman Tierney thank all who expressed their concern during the last few hours and appreciate the continued thoughts and prayers from friends, family and supporters,” Robison said.
Rep. Tierney in involved in an extremely close race with Republican challenger Richard Tisei for the 6th District Congressional seat. Election Day is two weeks from today.
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