Gerald Patriquin, Margaret Patriquin Obituary, Death – Officials have identified Gerald Patriquin, 89, and Margaret Patriquin, 74, as the Gardner residents who tragically lost their lives in a multi-vehicle crash on the Daniel Shays Highway (Route 202) in New Salem. The accident occurred shortly before 2 p.m. on Friday, December 6, according to Laurie Loisel, director of communication and community engagement at the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office.
The Patriquins were traveling in a truck that was one of three vehicles involved in the crash. Sadly, they were pronounced dead at the scene. They were the only occupants of their vehicle, and all other individuals injured in the collision survived, according to officials.
One of the vehicles involved in the crash was a commercial dump truck. A 45-year-old man from Chicopee, driving one of the other vehicles, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester for treatment. Another driver, a 35-year-old man from Orange, received treatment at Athol Memorial Hospital for his injuries. The extent of their conditions has not been disclosed.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation by state police detectives working with the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office. Additional investigative support is being provided by the Crime Scene Services Section, the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, and the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Section.
Following the crash, Route 202 was closed to traffic for several hours to allow emergency responders and investigators to work at the scene. The highway reopened just after 8 p.m. on Friday night.
Authorities have stated that no charges are expected to be filed in connection with the incident. The investigation aims to uncover the circumstances leading to the crash and provide clarity on what transpired.
The tragedy has left the Gardner community mourning the loss of Gerald and Margaret Patriquin while also serving as a reminder of the importance of road safety and vigilance. Their passing marks a heartbreaking end to a sudden and devastating incident.