Crime & Safety

'Head Injuries' Ruled Cause of Death in Fatal Bridge Crash

A Barrington man died of "head injuries" after a serious crash on the Mt. Hope Bridge Saturday night.


The state Medical Examiner's Office has released its findings
in the fatal vehicle crash Saturday night on the Mt. Hope Bridge. 

Paul L. Matthews, 63, of Heritage Road, Barrington, died Saturday night of head injuries, reports The Providence Journal. 

Warren resident Lenor C. Andrade and Portsmouth residents James and Ann Hitchen, and John and Susan Kelchner were also injured during the major crash. None of their injuries are considered life-threatening. 

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State Police Capt. Frank B. Castellone says alcohol was not a factor in the crash, but police are looking into whether distracted driving or a medical issue was the cause. 

"The investigation is not complete," Castellone said. "We are awaiting the report from the Medical Examiner's Office. We are looking into whether there was a medical issue."  

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The GMC van, operated by Matthews, swerved to the left and struck another vehicle head-on, according to The Providence Journal. Matthews was not wearing a seatbelt at the time, according to the article. 

The crash remains under investigation by the State Police. 


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