Defense Attorney Killed When Crowbar Struck His Vehicle In Spencer
SPENCER (CBS) - A well-known defense attorney was killed when a crowbar struck his vehicle as he drove along Route 9, police said.
John Madaio, 63, of Paxton died after the accident around 10 a.m. Monday, Spencer Police Chief David Darrin said in a statement.
Officers responded to Crestview Condominiums on Main Street after receiving a report of a car accident.
A preliminary investigation found that Madaio was driving a 2011 Toyota Rav 4 along Route 9 in an easterly direction "when a crow bar was kicked-up or fell from another vehicle."
"The crowbar struck and penetrated the windshield of the Toyota Rav 4 hitting Madaio in the head," Darrin said. "The vehicle subsequently left the road, struck a curbing and an unoccupied vehicle in the parking lot. The vehicle continued over an embankment, before coming to a stop."
First responders had to break the passenger window to reach Madaio. He was sent to Harrington Hospital where he died.
In a statement, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early said his office "was saddened to hear of the tragic passing of John Madaio."
"John was a great father, great lawyer and extremely well-respected member of the DA's office for more than 15 years,'" Early said. "More recently as a defense attorney, John was a dedicated advocate for his clients."
Early said Madaio's daughter works as an assistant district attorney in his office.
"John touched many people in his life with his sharp wit, his compassion and his legal abilities. He will be missed by all who knew him. This is a big loss for our community," Early said.
Anyone who saw the accident is asked to call the Spencer Police Department 508-885-6333.