Massachusetts Republican lieutenant governor candidate Shawn Oliver announced Sunday he is suspending his campaign following his arrest on charges of operating under the influence of liquor.
Oliver was arrested early Sunday morning in New Bedford after his vehicle allegedly overturned following a collision with multiple parked cars. According to the New Bedford Police Department, five parked vehicles were involved in the incident, with two sustaining significant damage.
Officers responded to the scene around 11:40 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, where they identified Oliver as the operator of the overturned vehicle. He was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of his injuries. Following an investigation at the scene and the hospital, Oliver was arrested and charged with operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, a marked lanes violation, and speeding.
Oliver's arrest occurred less than 24 hours before early voting was set to begin in Massachusetts. He is running on the Republican ticket alongside gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue, who called for Oliver to suspend his campaign shortly after the arrest became public.
In a statement posted on social media by his campaign, Oliver stated, “After careful reflection, I have made the decision to suspend my campaign for Lieutenant Governor. This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters. I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey and ask that my family's privacy be respected during this difficult time.” Oliver, who has experience as a correctional officer, did not elaborate further on the incident. Mysteries Surrounding Missing Man Who Vanished After 1999 Prom ABC News has reached out to Oliver's campaign for further comment.