Friends rally around family of man 'killed by drunk driver' in mum's yard
A community has rallied around a woman and her baby after her husband was fatally struck by an allegedly drunk driver in his mum’s front yard.
Kevin Sullivan, 40, died on November 4 when Massachusetts police claim Joshua Patel, 37, lost control of his SUV and struck the dad – killing him instantly.
At the time of the tragic accident, Mr Sullivan, his wife Jennifer and their 11-month-old daughter Adelynn had been staying with his mum at her home near Boston while theirs underwent renovations.
Mr Patel had allegedly been speeding when his vehicle left the road and struck Mr Sullivan before continuing across the yard and hitting a parked car, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said in a press release.
Mr Patel allegedly tried to flee the scene and hit a witness, but was later restrained by neighbours.
Officers claim the 37-year-old was uncooperative and showed signs of impairment at the scene.
He has been charged with motor vehicle homicide by operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, assault and battery, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, speeding and a mark lanes violation.
“Shattered” friends and family have gathered to support Mr Sullivan’s wife and young daughter, raising more than A$360,000 to help them as “they navigate life without Kevin”.
Mr Sullivan has been described as a “doting father, supportive best friend and dedicated husband”.
“Kevin would do anything for the people he loved and brought joy to everyone he met.
The donations will “go directly to Jen to help with the unanticipated end of life costs, costs to support Adelynn's care without a partner, and monthly expenses to support the family.”
Mr Patel, who will face court again on December 3, has been ordered not to drive, consume any alcohol and submit to random tests while out on bail.
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