Canton police chief finally issues statement on hitting pedestrian

Statement from Canton Police Chief Helena Rafferty regarding a motor vehicle accident she was involved in:

“First and foremost, I want to express my sincere and continued concern for Wrentham resident Michael C. Barry, whom I accidentally struck on the evening of February 16th, 2024, as I was driving to my home in my town issued vehicle through the Town of Wrentham.

As the report filed by the Wrentham Police states: I was driving on South St. toward the center and came to the intersection of Creek St. where I needed to make a left-hand turn.  As I proceeded to make the left turn onto Creek St., the vehicle lights caught the reflective vest of a person in the crosswalk. I immediately applied my brakes, but unfortunately, the car made contact with him, knocking him to the ground. I immediately exited my vehicle to render first aid and called 911.  I remained on scene with Mr. Barry until the Wrentham Police and Fire Departments responded. At that time, I answered questions, and upon my request took a breathalyzer test which read 0.0% blood alcohol content.

Upon the arrival of first responders, Mr. Barry was alert and conscious, and was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment. I stayed on scene until the scene was cleared.

The investigating officer issued a Massachusetts Civil Citation for Chapter 89 Section 11, Marked Crosswalks/Yielding the right of way to pedestrians, which I have paid.

My vehicle sustained no damage, with the exception of a scuff mark on the right front corner, therefore no tow was necessary. Upon clearing the scene, I immediately notified Canton officials as to what happened.

This was an unfortunate accident. Upon further reflection and considering the amount of attention that has been focused on Canton, I should have issued a statement sooner.”