Fall River, MA (February 21, 2026) – A Massachusetts State Police trooper was taken to the hospital on Friday afternoon, February 20, after a cruiser was struck on Route 79 S near N Main St in Fall River. The crash happened just after 2 p.m. while troopers were investigating a separate tractor-trailer collision.
Authorities said a marked state police cruiser was stopped at the scene when it was hit from behind by another tractor-trailer. One trooper, a recent graduate of the 92nd Recruit Training Troop, was inside the cruiser at the time of the impact. His field training officer was outside the vehicle when the crash occurred.
The trooper inside the cruiser was transported to a hospital for evaluation of possible injuries. No additional details about his condition have been released.
Information about the driver of the tractor-trailer that struck the cruiser has not been provided. The incident remains under review by authorities. We are keeping the injured trooper in our thoughts as he receives medical care.
Why Secondary Crashes Are a Risk During Highway Investigations
Secondary crashes often occur when vehicles approach an existing accident scene. Drivers may be distracted by flashing lights or slowed traffic, which can lead to rear-end collisions. Highways like Route 79 carry steady traffic, increasing the danger for emergency vehicles stopped along the roadway.
Large commercial trucks require more distance to slow down or stop. If traffic patterns change suddenly, drivers may not have enough time to react safely. That risk is higher when vehicles are stopped for an earlier crash.
Safety officials remind drivers to reduce speed and stay alert when approaching any emergency scene. Leaving extra space and watching traffic flow carefully can help prevent additional collisions during active investigations.
