Woman Killed When SUV Crashes Into Boston Hospital
Police rule the incident a tragic accident, not a crime, as investigations continue into the cause.
An elderly woman died after a black Volvo SUV crashed into Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital in Boston on Thursday morning, striking her as she sat on a bench outside. Police are investigating the incident but stated it was "undoubtedly, a very tragic situation" and "not a deliberate act."
The victim was taken to the hospital's emergency department but succumbed to her injuries shortly after. Two individuals inside the SUV, a man and a woman, sustained minor injuries.
Boston Police Department Superintendent Paul McLaughlin confirmed at a press briefing that preliminary investigations indicate the crash was accidental. "We are very sure, given what we know at this point, that it was not deliberate, that there is no nexus to terrorism," McLaughlin said, adding that the investigation is ongoing.
Witnesses reported that the driver appeared to be an elderly man who may have accidentally accelerated while turning. The crash occurred around 10:45 a.m. outside the Belkin House, a building on the hospital campus that houses a dialysis center.
Following the collision, a damaged gas line near the building prompted an evacuation as a precaution. A total of 32 people, including 17 patients and 15 staff members, were escorted from the facility. No injuries were reported among those evacuated.
Crews from National Grid and the Boston Fire Department responded to ensure safety. Several Boston EMS members were evaluated for potential exposure.
Mass General Brigham, the hospital's operator, stated that the main hospital remained operational, but patients were advised to avoid the Faulkner Hospital campus unless necessary. The Belkin House facility remained closed for Thursday and Friday, disrupting services at the dialysis clinic located there.
In a statement, Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital expressed condolences to the victim's family and those injured, thanking emergency partners for their swift response. The hospital also noted that the main facility was deemed safe and continued to operate. By early afternoon, people were permitted to re-enter the Belkin House building to retrieve personal belongings.