Man charged with motor vehicle homicide after woman, 70, killed in New Bedford crash

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A 34-year-old Dartmouth man has been charged with motor vehicle homicide by OUI and negligence after a crash in New Bedford that killed a 70-year-old woman and injured another pedestrian. Prosecutors say video evidence shows Johansen's vehicle was backed up in traffic when he decided to pass traffic in the opposite lane before suddenly turning left, causing his vehicle to slide on ice and hit the two women on the sidewalk.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of impaired and reckless driving, which can have devastating consequences for innocent pedestrians. It also raises concerns about road safety and the need for stricter enforcement and penalties to deter such behavior and protect vulnerable road users.

The details

According to the statement of facts, while partially on the wrong side of the road, Johansen's vehicle slid on ice, causing him to slide onto the sidewalk and hit the two women who were pedestrians. Police also allegedly found an open container of Coors Light in Johansen's car.

• On Feb. 6, the crash occurred at the intersection of Route 18 North and Coggeshall Street in New Bedford.
• On Feb. 10, Johansen was arraigned in New Bedford District Court on the charges.
• Johansen is expected to make another court appearance on March 6.

What’s next

Johansen's bail was set at $5,000. If bail is posted, he will have a GPS monitoring device and a curfew and must remain alcohol-free. Johansen is expected to make another court appearance on March 6.