EagleTribune.com, North Andover, MA
Merrimack Valley
Lawrence pedestrian hit by car
Published: November 3, 2008
LAWRENCE — An elderly pedestrian struck by a car at a Route 114 intersection was listed in critical condition at a Boston hospital late last night, police said.
John Robichaud, 78, of 145 Farnham St. was hit by a car as he was crossing Winthrop Avenue (Route 114) near the Grafton Street intersection at 5:23 p.m., according to a police report.
Robichaud was first brought to Lawrence General Hospital for treatment. Emergency room doctors determined Robichaud suffered "serious internal injuries" and he was airlifted to Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, the report said.
Pre-existing health problems and medications may have exacerbated Robichaud's condition, police said.
The driver, Suhey Perez, 29, of 270 Oakland Ave., Methuen, was not cited or charged last night. However, police said Perez was driving after her registration was revoked because of an insurance cancellation effective Nov. 1.
Perez told police she was leaving the Route 114 shopping plaza and turned right at the intersection when the accident occurred. She said she made a left turn toward South Union Street and "did not see the pedestrian until she struck him," according to a report written by Officer Pedro Lopez. After Robichaud struck her windshield, she pulled over, she told police.
Her vehicle received heavy damage to the front end and windshield, police noted. The area where the accident occurred was moderately lit and there was no crosswalk.
Robichaud was dressed in dark clothing, police said.
The accident remained under investigation last night. Criminal charges may be pending, police said.
