Boston, Massachusetts – A Saturday morning walk in Boston’s Back Bay ended in tragedy after a man and his dog were struck and killed in what investigators say was an intentional hit-and-run. The driver initially fled the scene but has since been arrested and charged with murder.
Incident Overview
According to Boston police, the collision occurred just after 8 a.m. Saturday near the intersection of Commonwealth Avenue and Hereford Street. The victim, later identified as John Axelrod, was walking his dog when he was hit by a car.
Axelrod was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His dog also died as a result of the crash.
Victim Identified by Prosecutors
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office confirmed on Sunday that the victim was 79 years old. Friends and neighbors in the Back Bay area described the location as a busy but familiar pedestrian route, especially on weekend mornings.
Authorities have not released information about Axelrod’s family at this time.
Driver Fled the Scene After the Crash
Police say the driver immediately fled following the collision. Due to the severity of the incident, homicide detectives and the fatal collision investigation team were called to the scene.
Investigators quickly issued a description of the suspect vehicle, which was later located in Brookline.
Arrest Made After Driver Contacted Police
According to Brookline police, the driver later walked into the Brookline Police Department, prompting officers to contact Boston police. Detectives responded and took the suspect into custody.
Boston police identified the driver as William Haney, who was arrested on a murder charge following what authorities described as an exhaustive investigation.
In addition to murder, Haney is also facing a cruelty to animals charge related to the death of the dog.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Haney, 42, is a Boston resident and is expected to be arraigned in Boston Municipal Court on Monday morning, according to police and prosecutors.
As of Sunday, it was unclear whether Haney has obtained legal representation. Authorities have also not disclosed a possible motive for why Axelrod and his dog were allegedly struck intentionally.
Prosecutors said additional details are expected to emerge during the arraignment.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators have not yet released surveillance footage, witness statements, or further evidence explaining the circumstances leading up to the crash. Police continue to review the sequence of events surrounding the incident.
Officials emphasized that the case remains active and urged anyone with additional information to contact Boston police.
Conclusion
The death of John Axelrod and his dog has shocked residents of Boston’s Back Bay, raising renewed concerns about pedestrian safety and violent roadway incidents. With a suspect now in custody, authorities say the focus will shift to court proceedings and uncovering the motive behind the fatal crash.
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