In a sobering turn of events over the weekend in Fairhaven, a man has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of a moped rider. Thirty-five-year-old Ryan Almeida of Fairhaven now faces serious charges after fleeing the scene of a collision that resulted in the death of 29-year-old Alexis Alvarez of Brockton.
The collision, reported around 7 p.m. this past Saturday, occurred near Riverside Cemetery close to the Route 195 overpass. Struck by a Chevy Silverado, the victim, Alvarez, was found seriously injured and, despite prompt medical attention, was pronounced dead at St. Luke's Hospital, as reported by WHDH.
Almeida was arrested and charged with leaving the scene—death resulting, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon—substantial injury, as detailed by Fairhaven Police Lt. Kevin Kobza, according to a WHDH news story. His arraignment took place today in New Bedford District Court. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.
On Main Street where the incident unfolded, a road rage episode might have been the tragic scene's instigator, Assistant District Attorney Russ Eonas said in court, referencing evidence and witness testimonies. "Witnesses indicated that the two parties were, at different times, traveling on the wrong side of the roadway and ultimately, although not observed by any of the witnesses, a collision occurred between the defendant's passenger-side side-view mirror and in all likelihood the head of Mr. Alvarez," Eonas explained, as noted by WPRI.
Following up on a witness-provided license plate, police located Almeida's truck which displayed damage consistent with the crash, parked outside his girlfriend’s house. Almeida maintains his innocence, and his attorney stated, He "looks forward to his story being told as the case develops," with a not guilty plea entered on his behalf. As mentioned by WPRI, the court has set bail at $25,000 for Almeida, who has also been ordered to surrender all firearms and is prohibited from driving until the court hearing in September.
