Shawn Oliver, Republican candidate for Massachusetts Lt. Gov., suspends campaign after arrest

Shawn Oliver, a New Bedford City Council member and Republican candidate for Massachusetts lieutenant governor, suspended his campaign after an alleged drunk driving crash late Saturday night led to his arrest.

It happened around 11:40 p.m. on Dartmouth Street in New Bedford.

Police said Oliver's SUV flipped over and slammed into multiple parked cars. In total, five cars were involved and two were heavily damaged.

Oliver was taken to St. Luke's Hospital for treatment. Police said that after an investigation at the scene of the crash and the hospital, Oliver was arrested.

He is charged with operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, marked lanes violation and speeding.

Oliver, who represents Ward 3 on the New Bedford City Council, was running for lieutenant governor on the Republican ticket with Mike Minogue.

Minogue released a statement Sunday, calling for Oliver to suspend his campaign.

"I am extremely disappointed. Shawn is lucky to be alive and lucky that no one innocent was hurt. There is no excuse for driving under the influence," Minogue said. "After speaking with Shawn, I am asking him to suspend his campaign immediately, and when elected, I will formally ask for his resignation. Shawn is a father and grandfather, and he needs to put his family first. He needs to do the work to ensure this never happens again. If he needs help with that, I will help him." 

Later, Oliver released his first statement following his arrest, saying he would indeed end his campaign. It is unclear what will happen on the Republican side of the ballot in the election, which is just over two weeks away.

"This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters. I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey and ask that my family's privacy be respected during this difficult time," Oliver said.

Massachusetts Republican Party spokeswoman Amy Carnevale then sent a statement supporting Oliver's decision.

"The MassGOP supports the decision of Shawn Oliver to suspend his campaign for Lieutenant Governor. Lives were put at risk and that is never acceptable. We now stand to assist Shawn in getting any help he needs to ensure he never puts himself or others in harm's way again," Carnevale said. "We also recognize that Shawn Oliver is holding himself accountable for his actions and facing the consequences of this situation."

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, a Democrat, called the allegations "deeply concerning."

Minogue and Oliver were running as the Republican ticket for governor and lieutenant governor against incumbent Democrats Maura Healey and Kim Driscoll.

A spokesperson for Healey said they do not have any comment at this time.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.