Memorial Day Motor Vehicle Accidents in Pittsfield

On Monday, May 27, 2019 the Pittsfield Police and Fire Departments responded to multiple motor vehicle crashes throughout the city over the course of a couple of hours. At approximately 3:19 PM, both departments responded to the area of 100 Jason St for a report of single car accident. Investigation showed that a 2006 Toyota Rav4 was being operated by 22 year old, Austin Benlien of 440 North St, Pittsfield, and was traveling southbound on Jason St., struck a guardrail on the right side of the road, careened across the road striking a telephone pole, the crossed the road again coming to rest against several trees on the west side of the road. Benlien was not hurt in the crash. Benlien was arrested and charged with OUI/Liquor and Reckless Operation of a M/V.

While the police and fire departments were at the scene on Jason St, a motor vehicle crash was reported near the intersection of Holmes Rd and Cummings Ave. Investigation into this crash showed a 2013 Chevy Silverado pickup truck was being operated by 34 year old, Thomas Lahert of 41 Cherry St, Pittsfield. Lahert was traveling southbound on Holmes Rd, crossed the center line and struck a northbound 2011 Toyota Rav4 being operated by 56 year old Mary Jane Dunlop of 12 Ventura Ave, Pittsfield. This was a head on collision. Lahert was not injured in the crash and Dunlop was transported to Berkshire Medical Center for injuries that did not appear to be life threatening. At this time, investigation is still ongoing. Charges are currently pending against Lahert.

At 5:53 PM, both departments were dispatched to the area of 219 High St for another motor vehicle crash. Personnel found a 2010 Suzuki against a tree at the corner of High St and Paisley Tc. Investigation showed the Suzuki, operated by a 17 year old juvenile, was traveling southbound on High St and ran off the east side of the roadway, colliding with the tree. The operator was transported to Berkshire Medical Center for possible minor injuries.

These accidents remain under investigation by the Pittsfield Police Traffic Bureau. Anyone who may have witnessed any of these accidents is asked to contact Officer David Hallas at (413)-448-9700 Ext. 560.

(press release received from Lt. Jeffrey Bradford of the Pittsfield Police Department for online and on-air use)