A Massachusetts judge has found Bradley Rein competent to stand trial in connection with the November 21, 2022 crash at the Apple Store at Derby Street Shops in Hingham that killed 65-year-old Kevin Bradley and injured 22 other people. Rein faces a series of serious criminal charges, including second-degree murder, motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, 18 counts of aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and four counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Rein has pleaded not guilty.
According to authorities, Rein was driving a 2019 Toyota 4Runner when the vehicle went through the glass storefront of the Apple Store. Rein told investigators that his foot became stuck on the accelerator and that he attempted to brake but was unable to stop the vehicle. Prosecutors have alleged that the SUV accelerated rapidly before the collision. Rein’s defense has maintained that the crash was an accident and has explored whether a vehicle malfunction or technological issue could have contributed to the sudden acceleration. His trial is currently expected to begin in January 2027.
When a Motor Vehicle Case Becomes a Serious Criminal Prosecution
The Hingham case demonstrates how an incident involving a motor vehicle can result in charges extending far beyond ordinary traffic offenses. Massachusetts prosecutors may pursue serious criminal charges when they believe the evidence demonstrates reckless conduct, particularly when an incident results in death or serious bodily injury. Depending upon the circumstances, a defendant could potentially face charges ranging from reckless operation or “driving to endanger” to motor vehicle homicide and other felony offenses.
Complex cases can also turn on evidence that may not be obvious immediately after an accident. Vehicle data, surveillance footage, accident reconstruction, mechanical inspections, electronic systems, witness statements, medical evidence, cell phone records and expert testimony may all become important. In the Hingham case, for example, the circumstances surrounding the vehicle’s acceleration and the defense’s contention that a malfunction may have played a role have been significant issues. When the prosecution and defense offer different explanations for what occurred, technical and expert evidence can become a critical part of the case.
Facing Driving to Endanger or Other Serious Motor Vehicle Charges in Massachusetts
Anyone facing a serious criminal charge arising from a motor vehicle incident should understand that the government’s initial description of what happened is not necessarily the final word. A defense attorney can independently examine the evidence, evaluate whether the prosecution can prove each element of the charged offenses beyond a reasonable doubt, and determine whether accident reconstruction specialists, automotive experts or other professionals should be consulted. Preserving evidence early can be particularly important in a complicated case.
Attorney Frank O’Brien has represented clients facing Driving to Endanger and other serious criminal charges in Massachusetts. With more than 30 years of criminal defense experience, he understands that cases involving serious accidents can require a careful investigation of both the facts and the technical evidence. If you are under investigation or have been charged with a serious motor vehicle-related offense, obtaining experienced legal counsel early in the process can help protect your rights and ensure that the evidence and circumstances surrounding the incident are thoroughly examined.