State Trooper, Driver Killed In Lynnfield Route 1 Wrong-Way Crash

Updated 10:45 a.m.

LYNNFIELD, MA — A Massachusetts state trooper and a wrong-way driver were killed in a head-on collision on Route 1 northbound in Lynnfield overnight Wednesday morning.

Route 1 northbound was closed for hours through the early morning hours after the crash at about 2 a.m., according to emergency services reports.

The road was fully reopened at about 8 a.m.

The driver of a Jeep, which was being driven southbound in the northbound lanes, was pronounced dead at the scene. Multiple media reports said the trooper was rushed to Massachusetts General Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

He died later in the morning.

"I am heartbroken by the tragic death of a Massachusetts State Police trooper who died on the line of duty overnight in Lynnfield," Gov. Maura Healey said in a statement on Wednesday. "The trooper was responding to reports of a wrong-way driver and put himself in harm's way to protect others.

"This act of service and courage is what our State Police are called to do every day. They show up ready to face danger so the rest of us can be safe.

"Today, Massachusetts is mourning one of those heroes. My thoughts and prayers are with the trooper's family, loved ones, and with fellow members of the State Police during this incredibly difficult time."

The Massachusetts State Police released a statement on Wednesday morning, saying the MSP is asking Bay Staters to "remember the courage, sacrifice and selfless dedication demonstrated by those who put the safety of others ahead of their own every single day."

The MSP confirmed the trooper was attempting to intercept the wrong-way driver at the time of the crash.

"Our hearts are heavy once again as the Massachusetts law enforcement community mourns the loss of a Massachusetts State Police trooper killed in the line of duty this morning in Lynnfield," the MSP said.

A police procession was set to take place from Massachusetts General Hospital on Wednesday morning.

Gov. Healey, State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble, Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker and State Police Association of Massachusetts President Brian Williams were among those expected to speak at a news conference on the crash at the Danvers Police Barracks late Wednesday morning.

Patch will update this breaking story as more information becomes available.