Teen Driver Arrested Following Fatal Crash in Marblehead
A 16-year-old driver has been arrested on multiple charges related to a crash that killed a 13-year-old girl in Marblehead, Massachusetts, early Tuesday morning.
According to the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, the teenager faces charges of motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, receiving a stolen vehicle, and operating under the influence in Lynn Juvenile Court. He was initially charged only with operating under the influence.
Prosecutors noted the driver is also facing two civil motor vehicle infractions. Details regarding any plea or legal representation were not disclosed.
The crash occurred on Atlantic Avenue just before 3 a.m., where first responders found a severely damaged vehicle with the girl, identified as Savanah Gatchell, suffering life-threatening injuries. She was pronounced dead shortly thereafter, leaving her family devastated.
“There is an empty hole in my chest,” said her mother, Christine Gatchell, in a statement to NBC10 Boston. Savanah was expected to start the eighth grade soon, according to Marblehead Public Schools Superintendent John Robidoux, who confirmed that grief counselors will be available at Veterans Middle School and Marblehead High School.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.