Whitman: License of driver in fatal pedestrian accident suspended

An Attleboro man behind the wheel of a Dodge Ram pickup truck that struck and killed a 38 year old Whitman man and injured a young girl on a bicycle on Temple Street in Whitman has had his license suspended.

Richard Brown’s license was suspended indefinitely effective Monday under a provision of Massachusetts General Laws called the “Fatal Preliminary Provision.” His license will remain suspended until the results of the police investigation are available.

According to a Massachusetts Registry spokesperson, Brown’s license was active but in a non-renewable state because of an outstanding tax bill owed to the City of Attleboro.

Brown’s lengthy driving record includes several surchargable accidents and moving violations like speeding.

Brown, on Sunday, was traveling toward Brockton on Route 27 when he struck 38 year-old Edward Cordwell, Jr., of Whitman, and a young girl with Cordwell, riding a bicycle with training wheels.

There is no crosswalk in the area where the pair were apparently crossing the road. Deputy Police Chief Tim Hanlon said why they were in the roadway in that area is still under investigation.

Whitman Fire Chief Tim Grenno told WATD the accident took place across the street from his home. He was first on the scene.