Fatal New Bedford Accident [UPDATE]

New Bedford and State Police are investigating a single vehicle fatal accident in New Bedford. The accident happened Sunday afternoon at the exit ramp from Rt. 18 to Weld Street. The ATV the victim was riding was in struck a fixed object. Police haven't released any other information on the accident at this time and the name of the victim is being withheld as well.

Update: 11:45am

Police are still investigating a fatal accident involving a man riding his all-terrain-vehicle. According to the Bristol County District Attorney's office, 34-year-old Richard Pires of New Bedford was riding his ATV on state-owned property underneath the Rt 195 overpass along Rt 18 around 2pm Sunday, when he struck a support column for a highway sign. Officials estimate Pires was going at least 40mph and was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

Pires was transported to St. Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead. A spokesman for the DA's office says Pires was trespassing on the state-owned grassy area, which is a favorite spot for ATV riders in the area. The fatal accident remains under investigation.