MA Man Pleads Not Guilty In Fatal Cape Cod Crash; Fundraiser Underway

BARNSTABLE, MA — An Ipswich, Massachusetts man pled not guilty to charges relating to a fatal motorcycle crash on Cape Cod this week, which took the life of an 18-year-old.

Sam Needham, of Centerville, died in a crash with a pick-up truck on Tuesday afternoon, police said. One man, Richard Collins, 71, is charged with leaving the scene of that accident, in addition to motor vehicle homicide and operating under the influence of alcohol.

Related: 18-Year-Old Dies In Cape Cod Motorcycle Crash, 1 Man Charged

According to the Cape Cod Times, Collins bail was set to $10,000 cash or $100,000 bond, under the condition that he be fitted for an alcohol monitor, insuring that he doesn't drink and that he doesn't drive in Massachusetts or leave the state until the end of the trial.

A pre-trial hearing is set for Sept. 20.

While Collins was in court, an online fundraiser was established for funeral costs, and quickly raised nearly $60,000 on GoFundMe.

The fundraiser was created by the Gualberto family, who say they are close with the Needam family. On the page, they remember Sam fondly.

"Sam was loved by many who are mourning his loss including his family, friends, Barnstable School community, and more," they wrote.

"He was a bright, genuine soul who would always be seen either fishing, biking, or driving around. He was truly the most incredible friend and family member who will be missed so dearly."

For the fundraiser, click here.

Tuesday Crash

The Barnstable Police Department was called to 3900 Falmouth Rd and Route 28 in Marstons Mills regarding an accident with personal injury just before noon on Tuesday.

They found other citizens at the scene giving CPR to the motorcyclist, later identified as Needham. Police took over in providing CPR, but said as they were doing so, the operator of the truck drove away from the scene without identifying himself, police said.

Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills Rescue personnel treated and transported the injured motorcyclist to Cape Cod Hospital, where upon arrival he was pronounced dead. At the crash scene, witnesses assisted the police department with identifying the suspect driver, 71-year-old Richard Collins of Ipswich, Massachusetts.

Neighboring law enforcement agencies were informed that police were looking for Collins, and Mashpee police were able to provide addresses where he could be staying, police said.

Barnstable officers then went to an Osterville residence several miles from the crash scene and arrested Collins, who is charged with motor vehicle homicide - OUI liquor and negligent operation, leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury or death, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and two other traffic violations.