Massachusetts Republican candidate arrested after crash, urged to suspend campaign

Republican Massachusetts lieutenant governor candidate Shawn Oliver was arrested after an alleged drink-driving crash in New Bedford, prompting his running mate, gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue, to call for him to suspend his campaign. The incident has raised questions about Oliver’s candidacy and accountability, while police investigate the crash.

Police said Oliver’s car overturned after hitting five parked vehicles near a shopping plaza at about 11.40pm on Saturday. The 42-year-old was taken to hospital and later charged with operating under the influence, negligent driving, a marked-lanes violation and speeding; he was released from custody on Sunday morning. No injuries to other people were reported in the article, and New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell said the public deserved Oliver’s explanation.