Norfolk DA Says 'Medical Episode' Led Him To Cause Milton Crash
BOSTON (CBS) - Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey said a "medical episode" caused him to pass out triggering a four-car crash in Milton earlier this week.
Milton police said Morrissey drifted across the center line on Centre Street while driving home Tuesday evening causing the accident which left Morrissey and three others hurt. None of the injuries were serious.
Morrissey, 58, issued a statement Thursday afternoon, saying he had "made a series of phone calls on my hands free wireless telephone," just before the crash.
"The last call I made was to order a pizza. Shortly after that last telephone call, I was perspiring and felt lightheaded and the next thing I recall is being outside of my car which was stopped across two lanes of traffic. "
Morrissey said he didn't know what happened, but that he had no reason to dispute witness accounts that he caused the accident.
He was taken to Milton Hospital, where he was released a day later.
"My medical records reveal that there was no alcohol in my system. Also, witnesses indicated that speed was not a factor," Morrissey said in his statement.
"Instead, my medical records will show that I suffered a medical episode that caused me to lose consciousness and cross over the center line into the opposite lane of travel. The visible injuries I suffered were to my hand and torso. Fatigue, dehydration and extreme temperatures contributed to my loss of consciousness. On my doctor's advice, I plan to take some time off to recuperate."
Milton Police issued Morrissey a citation immediately after the crash.
A hearing will eventually be held to determine any criminal liability.
