Alleged Drunken Trooper Coverup Heats Up Middlesex DA Race

Marian Ryan faces reelection challenge amid scandal involving fatal crash by her top investigator

Mar. 22, 2026 at 8:38am

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Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan is facing a tough reelection campaign amid a scandal involving one of her top State Police investigators, Sgt. Scott Quigley, who allegedly drove drunk and caused a fatal accident in 2023. The incident was covered up for over two years, and Ryan claims she was unaware of Quigley's high blood alcohol content at the time of the crash. Her opponent, former deputy David Solet, is now challenging her for the DA's office.

Why it matters

The Quigley case has raised serious questions about transparency and accountability within the Middlesex DA's office, as well as the relationship between law enforcement and prosecutors. The scandal could have significant implications for Ryan's reelection bid and the broader public trust in the criminal justice system.

The details

Sgt. Scott Quigley, a second-generation state trooper, was allegedly drinking at a Woburn bar with another trooper before the fatal 2023 accident. Quigley's blood alcohol content was recorded at .114 at the hospital, but he only received a written warning from another trooper at the scene. The investigating trooper, Lt. Jen Penton, has since been indicted in an unrelated case for involuntary manslaughter and perjury. Multiple agencies, including the State Police and the Suffolk County DA, are now investigating the incident.

  • The fatal accident occurred in 2023.
  • The incident was covered up for more than two years.
  • Marian Ryan drove to a Democratic Town Committee meeting in Pepperell on Tuesday night to address the scandal.

The players

Marian Ryan

The 71-year-old Middlesex District Attorney who is facing reelection amid the scandal involving one of her top investigators.

David Solet

Ryan's opponent in the Middlesex DA race, who was previously one of her top deputies in the prosecutor's office.

Scott Quigley

A second-generation state trooper who was allegedly driving drunk and caused a fatal accident in 2023, which was covered up for over two years.

Jen Penton

The state trooper who investigated the fatal accident involving Quigley and has since been indicted for involuntary manslaughter and perjury in an unrelated case.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.