Hopkinton Selectman Struck, Killed Natick Officer 92 Years Ago

NATICK, MA—Thursday, July 19, marked the 92nd anniversary of when the Natick Police Department lost one of their own.

According to police, while working traffic duty at the corner of Pond Street and Palmer Ave., Patrolman Charles W. Mathews was struck on a Sunday night about 9 p.m. by a car driven by Edward Carr of Hopkinton, an ex-representative and selectman. Mathews had been on duty all day while repairs were made on Central Street.

Carr drove West on Pond Street and claimed his speed was about ten miles an hour. He did not see the officer until he was upon him and brought his car to a stop within ten feet after hitting him.

Mathews clothes were torn off. He had suffered a compound fracture of the arm, bruises and cuts, and internal injuries.

Doctors Burke and Rowe said they thought he was fatally injured and the last rites of the Catholic Church were administered by Father James Landrigan of St. Patrick’s Church. He was taken to the Morse Hospital and placed on the "dangerous list," said police.

His condition improved the following day, and it was thought he may recover. On Tuesday evening, he passed away due to abdominal injuries.

Chief Evens made a request for a complaint for Judge Carr Wednesday for manslaughter.

Information and photo via Natick Police Department