Young Woman Dies After Being Struck on Route 18 in New Bedford

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — The woman who was struck after exiting her disabled vehicle Friday night on Route 18 in New Bedford has died as a result of her injuries.

Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced that Ruby Quiro Santos, 23, of New Bedford passed away from her injuries on Saturday, January 31. Another victim remains in critical but stable condition.

According to the D.A.’s Office, Massachusetts State Police responded to Route 18 North in New Bedford on Friday, January 30 at about 9:15 p.m. for a report of a serious motor vehicle crash. First responders arrived at the scene of the crash, north of the Hillman Street on-ramp.

What Investigators Say Happened in the Route 18 Crash

The initial investigation suggests Santos was driving a 2020 Toyota Camry that became disabled in the left lane of Route 18 North. A second vehicle, a 2018 Audi A4, arrived on the scene with multiple occupants to assist Santos. Two New Bedford Police Ford Explorers also arrived on scene.

As Santos and a second woman were walking to the Audi, a 2018 Honda Accord that was traveling down Route 18 North struck the two women outside of the vehicle. It also struck the Audi and one of the marked police vehicles.

Status of Other Victims in New Bedford Route 18 Crash

Everyone involved in the crash was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Santos succumbed to her injuries, and the second woman who was outside the vehicle is the victim who is in critical but stable condition. Everyone else involved in the crash either suffered minor injuries or are expected to recover from their injuries.

Road Conditions at the Time of the Route 18 Crash

The D.A’s Office pointed out that snow was partially in the left lane leading up to the scene of the crash.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing by Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney's Office, along with the Massachusetts State Police.