Tragedy in Waltham: Police Officer Paul Tracey and Utility Worker Roderick Jackson Killed in Hit-and-Run

Accident – death – Obituary News : WALTHAM, Mass. — A shocking incident unfolded in a Boston suburb on Wednesday afternoon, as a pickup truck driver crashed into a police officer and a utility employee at a work site, resulting in their tragic deaths. The driver, identified as Peter Simon, then proceeded to pull out a knife on another officer before stealing his cruiser and causing yet another crash. Law enforcement officials have since shared details of the incident.

According to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, the initial crash took place in Waltham, which is located about 10 miles west of Boston. Two other utility workers were also injured in the collision, but were treated and released from the hospital. Multiple other vehicles were struck by the truck before the driver abandoned it.

At a news conference, District Attorney Marian Ryan expressed her condolences, calling the incident an “unimaginable tragedy.” She highlighted the fact that the two victims were simply doing their job in the afternoon when they lost their lives. Ryan also emphasized that such crashes occur far too often.

After crashing the stolen cruiser, the driver was apprehended by the police following a brief foot pursuit. The accused, Peter Simon, a 54-year-old resident of Woodsville, New Hampshire, appeared in court on Thursday. He was arraigned on several charges, including two counts of manslaughter, armed robbery, assault, and leaving the scene of an accident. Simon pleaded not guilty through his lawyer, and a hearing date has been set for December 14.

According to prosecutors, the chain of events began when Simon abruptly attempted to make a U-turn, causing a collision with another vehicle. In an attempt to flee the scene, Simon continued driving for about a quarter mile, ultimately striking Waltham police Officer Paul Tracey, 58, and a 36-year-old National Grid worker named Roderick Jackson from Cambridge. Officer Tracey was on duty at a utility work site, which was clearly marked with orange cones, signs, and flashing lights. The truck also collided with a National Grid truck.

Despite the crashes, Simon did not stop and proceeded to hit several other vehicles before abandoning the truck. He then encountered another Waltham officer who was responding to the scene. Simon turned violent, brandishing a knife at the officer before stealing his cruiser and fleeing the area.

Law enforcement officers pursued Simon, attempting to stop him multiple times. However, each time, he deliberately veered his car towards oncoming officers. Eventually, Simon crashed the stolen cruiser and was arrested after a brief foot chase.

During Simon’s court appearance, prosecutors did not provide any specific motives behind his actions, aside from attempting to escape. It was revealed that Simon has a criminal history in New Hampshire dating back to 2009, with previous convictions for reckless conduct and assault. He has spent time in both the state corrections department secure psychiatric unit and the state prison.

Officer Paul Tracey and Roderick Jackson were taken to a hospital after the incident, but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries. Officer Tracey had served in the Waltham Police Department for 28 years, and his loss has deeply affected the community. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff at all state buildings in honor of Officer Tracey.

As the news of Officer Tracey’s passing spread, dozens of police officers, emergency medical workers, and firefighters lined the streets near the medical examiner’s office in Boston. Their blue and white emergency lights flashed in a show of solidarity as Officer Tracey’s body was transported to the facility.

Jim Tracey, the brother of Officer Paul Tracey, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the Waltham community. He described his brother as a tremendous husband, father, uncle, and brother, loved by everyone. He mentioned Paul’s laughter and compassion, which will be greatly missed.

Waltham Police Chief Kevin O’Connell spoke highly of Officer Tracey at a news conference, describing him as a compassionate police officer who always looked out for the underdog. Chief O’Connell also emphasized Officer Tracey’s role as an amazing husband, loving father, and friend to all.

Roderick Jackson, the National Grid worker who also lost his life in the incident, had recently joined the company’s gas operations team in early 2021. National Grid released a statement expressing their grief and describing Jackson as someone who was always willing to lend a hand and help his colleagues.

Manuel Asprilla-Hassan, Jackson’s brother, spoke to reporters about the devastating loss. He revealed that he had spoken to Roderick shortly before the crash, and they had discussed plans to attend the Rose Bowl Game together. Asprilla-Hassan described his brother as someone who meant everything to him and to everyone who knew him. He vowed that even when others may forget, they will always remember Roderick.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks that police officers and utility workers face while carrying out their duties. The loss of Officer Paul Tracey and Roderick Jackson has left a profound impact on their families, friends, and communities. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of these two dedicated individuals, and their memories will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them..