Lowell Murder Trial Delayed After Lead Investigator's Alleged Drunk Driving Crash

State Police sergeant accused of causing fatal accident while intoxicated, complicating high-profile murder case.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:03am

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A retrial for three brothers accused of murdering a man in Lowell has been delayed indefinitely due to concerns about the lead State Police investigator, who was allegedly driving drunk when he was involved in a fatal crash in 2023. The investigation into the investigator, Sgt. Scott Quigley, and his potential misconduct has complicated the murder case, leading the judge to postpone the trial until the probe is complete.

Why it matters

This case highlights the potential consequences of police misconduct and the challenges it can create for the criminal justice system. The delay in the Phan brothers' murder trial raises questions about the integrity of the investigation and the ability to provide a fair trial, especially if the lead investigator's actions are found to be criminal.

The details

Billoeum, Billy, and Channa Phan are charged with the September 2020 murder of Tyrone Phet in Lowell. They allegedly drove to Phet's house and waited about 21 minutes before fatally shooting him while he was sitting in his car. The brothers were indicted in January 2021 and pleaded not guilty, but a mistrial was declared in November 2024 when the jury deadlocked. The retrial was set to begin in April 2026 but has now been delayed indefinitely due to the investigation into Sgt. Quigley, who was involved in a fatal crash in Woburn in December 2023. Prosecutors allege Quigley may have been drunk at the time of the crash, and another officer involved in the investigation, Sgt. Jennifer Penton, is also facing criminal charges.

  • The Phan brothers were indicted in January 2021.
  • The first trial ended in a mistrial in November 2024.
  • Sgt. Quigley was involved in a fatal crash in Woburn in December 2023.
  • The retrial was set to begin on April 27, 2026, but has now been delayed indefinitely.

The players

Billoeum, Billy, and Channa Phan

Three brothers charged with the September 2020 murder of Tyrone Phet in Lowell.

Tyrone Phet

The victim who was fatally shot while sitting in his car in Lowell in September 2020.

Sgt. Scott Quigley

The State Police sergeant in charge of investigating the Phan brothers' case, who was allegedly driving drunk when he was involved in a fatal crash in Woburn in December 2023.

Sgt. Jennifer Penton

The officer who investigated Sgt. Quigley's crash and is currently suspended without pay after being charged with manslaughter for her alleged involvement in the death of a recruit at the State Police Training Academy in 2024.

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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

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee

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.