12-Year-Old Arnold Boy Killed By Van, Driver Charged

ARNOLD, MD — An Arnold boy died Sunday afternoon when he was hit by an out-of-control van while walking with his family. Authorities have charged the driver with several offenses, and say more criminal charges are possible once toxicology results come back.

Matthew Murphy, 12, of the 400 block of Shore Drive, died at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, according to Anne Arundel County Police. Matthew was walking on a sidewalk with his mother and brother about 3:20 p.m. when a Chevrolet van veered off Bay Green Drive and hit the boy. The van then continued through the grass before running off the road and striking a tree.

The boy was flown to the hospital, where he later died of his injuries. Van driver Michael Blair Gauthier, 37, of the 400 block of Golf Course Court in Arnold, was taken to Anne Arundel Medical Center with minor injuries
and a toxicology screening.

Police say the crash was likely caused by Gauthier's reckless driving, and failing to remain in a single lane. Gauthier was arrested and charged with criminally negligent manslaughter, grossly negligent manslaughter, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance.

Photo of Michael Gauthier, courtesy of Anne Arundel County Police