A reckless driver has been charged after crashing his vehicle into a Malden home, ultimately killing a man's dog, and leaving the man injured. According to CBS News Boston, 36-year-old Pierre Franzie, without a license, has been accused of multiple charges, including unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and failure to stop for police.
The vehicular havoc unfolded yesterday afternoon when Franzie's SUV allegedly swerved off the road on Webster Street, hurtling through a fence, striking a man and his dog, before hitting a house. Prosecutors disclosed that Franzie attempted to flee the scene and was caught by the authorities within two blocks attempting, to scale a fence. He allegedly told police he was en route to a job interview and insisted he was not behind the wheel at the time of the crash, claiming the actual driver had run away.
Malden District Court arraigned Franzie today with the judge setting his bail at $500 and prohibiting him from driving, should he make bail. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Franzie's defense attorney described the incident as a "tragic accident", while outside the court, Franzie's cousin signaled his intent to post bail for him, as reported by CBS News Boston.
An interview with neighbor Stanley Raczynski, conducted by WHDH, captured the immediate aftermath as Raczynski recounted hearing "burning rubber" and witnessing the driver fleeing the scene. "I said ‘Hey, where are you going? Stop!'", Raczynski uttered, giving chase to Franzie. The neighborhood has expressed loss over Toby, the dog known as a "beloved member" of the community. WHDH also highlighted concerns over speeding drivers in the Malden area.
The injured man, who is yet to be named, was taken to the hospital, while his dog was not as fortunate. Local police have yet to update on the man's current condition, and no further details regarding the incident have been released at this time.
