New Bedford, MA (May 8, 2026) – A New Bedford police motorcyclist was injured after being struck by a vehicle during a funeral procession escort on Thursday morning.
The crash occurred just after 9 a.m. on Brownell Ave, while the officer was assisting with traffic control during the procession. Emergency units responded to the scene and provided aid after reports that a police motorcycle had been struck by a vehicle.
Video from the scene showed the motorcycle on its side in the roadway and a blue Subaru with heavy damage to its left side. First responders were seen treating the injured officer at the scene before transport.
Both the officer and the driver of the Subaru were taken to a hospital for treatment of injuries described as non-life-threatening. Officials later reported that the driver was issued a citation for failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.
The crash area experienced temporary disruptions as crews worked to secure the scene and clear the roadway.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We are thinking of those injured as they recover.
Why Crashes Involving Police Motorcycles and Funeral Processions Are Closely Reviewed
Incidents involving police motorcycles during escorted processions are often reviewed carefully due to the controlled nature of these movements. Investigators typically assess traffic positioning, driver awareness, and compliance with instructions given during the escort.
Failure-to-yield situations are also examined in detail, especially when emergency or official vehicles are operating with priority on the roadway. Visibility conditions, timing, and intersection activity may also be considered.
Damage patterns and vehicle positions help reconstruct how the impact occurred, particularly when motorcycles are involved. These factors assist investigators in understanding how a driver and escorting officer came into contact during an organized procession.
