New Bedford, MA (January 31, 2026) – Authorities are investigating a serious multi-vehicle accident involving a New Bedford Police cruiser that occurred on Route 18 North near the off-ramp to Purchase Street. The crash left at least four individuals with serious injuries. According to Massachusetts State Police, all four victims were transported to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment. Emergency crews responded quickly to secure the scene and assist the injured. The investigation is ongoing, and further details have not yet been released.
Key Details
- Location: New Bedford, MA
- Where: Route 18 North near Purchase St off-ramp
- Type: Multi-Vehicle Accident
- Reported: Not stated
- Injuries: Confirmed – Four seriously injured
- Responding Agency: Massachusetts State Police, New Bedford Police
What We Know So Far
- The crash involved multiple vehicles and a New Bedford Police cruiser.
- It occurred on Route 18 North near the Purchase Street off-ramp.
- Four people sustained serious injuries and were taken to St. Luke’s Hospital.
- Officers and emergency personnel are actively assessing the scene.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The total number of vehicles involved in the crash.
- The cause or sequence of events leading to the collision.
- Whether additional injuries occurred beyond the four confirmed cases.
- If any charges or citations will be issued as part of the investigation.
Local Context
A crash involving a police cruiser on Route 18 North near the Purchase Street off-ramp can impact both commuter traffic and emergency response coordination in New Bedford. This section of the roadway connects residential and downtown areas to nearby interchanges and arterial routes. In incidents involving serious injuries, Massachusetts State Police and local agencies typically work together to stabilize the scene and gather accurate reports. The presence of a law enforcement vehicle in the crash often adds complexity to the investigation, which may extend until all facts are verified.
What to Do Next
- Follow directions from police or emergency personnel and use caution around emergency vehicles and traffic changes.
- If you witnessed the crash, consider staying to provide a statement if it is safe to do so.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Keep paperwork from the incident in one place for easy reference.
FAQ
Q: Why are details sometimes limited right after a crash?
A: Early updates focus on safety and response, so officials often wait to release more information until facts are confirmed.
Q: Why do multi-vehicle crashes take longer to clear?
A: These crashes often involve several damaged vehicles and more people to assist, requiring longer investigations and cleanup times.
Q: Who decides whether citations are issued after a crash?
A: That decision is made by investigating officers after reviewing the evidence and statements from those involved.
