New Bedford, Massachusetts – Joseph Louis Leon Jr., a 25-year-old resident of New Bedford, was arrested following a severe car crash on Route 18 that left a motorcyclist in critical condition. The incident occurred on the night of Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at around 9 p.m. near the intersection of Route 18 and Division Street.
Leon was driving a black BMW at high speed with four passengers, including two young children, aged 4 and 9. According to police reports, Leon was swerving in and out of traffic before his vehicle rear-ended a motorcyclist who had stopped at a red light. The collision left the motorcyclist unresponsive at the scene.
Officer Manuel Sequeira was one of the first responders, performing CPR on the motorcyclist until paramedics arrived and took over. The victim remains in critical condition at the hospital.
Leon faces multiple serious charges, including operating under the influence of alcohol causing serious bodily injury, child endangerment while under the influence, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, reckless endangerment of minors, and possession of an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. Officer Alan Kubik made the arrest.
The incident has sparked significant concern and discussion within the New Bedford community, with many residents expressing their thoughts and prayers on social media.
Melanie A Costa Levesque posted, "Praying."
Michele O’Leary added, "For the motorcycle rider’s recovery. Also for the 25-year-old driver who obviously has a severe problem that will seriously affect him and his family!"
Cidalia de Melo commented, "Where were the children’s mothers? The problem is the JUDGE. They give him a slap on the hand and an ankle bracelet. But if it was one of the judge’s family, then he would be in Jail."
Evamarie Zatir Fernandes shared, "Prayers for this victim’s full recovery."
Kelly Terrell said, "Prayers for the biker to make a full recovery. Hope the little ones are okay that were involved in the crash."
The New Bedford community continues to hope for the recovery of the injured motorcyclist while grappling with the severity of the incident and its impact on those involved.