Shawn Oliver Suspends Campaign After New Bedford OUI Crash

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Ward 3 City Councilor Shawn Oliver has suspended his campaign for Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts following his arrest for operating under the influence and other charges following a Saturday night crash.

“After careful reflection, I have made the decision to suspend my campaign for Lieutenant Governor,” Oliver said in a statement Sunday afternoon.

“This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters,” he said. “I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey and ask that my family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time.”

Running Mate Mike Minogue Called for Oliver's Resignation

Oliver’s announcement comes just hours after his running mate, Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue, called on Oliver to suspend his campaign.

“I am extremely disappointed. Shawn is lucky to be alive and lucky that no one innocent was hurt. There is no excuse for driving under the influence,” Minogue said. “After speaking with Shawn, I am asking him to suspend his campaign immediately, and when elected, I will formally ask for his resignation.”

“Shawn is a father and grandfather, and he needs to put his family first. He needs to do the work to ensure this never happens again. If he needs help with that, I will help him,” Minogue said.

What Oliver's Campaign Suspension Means for the November Ballot

Ballots are already printed and early voting began on Saturday, October 17, so Oliver will remain on the ballot. If Minogue defeats incumbent Maura Healey on November 3, Oliver would technically be voted in as lieutenant governor, which is why Minogue would then have to ask for his resignation.

MassGOP Responds to Oliver's Arrest and Decision

Massachusetts Republican Party Chair Amy Carnavale also released a statement following Oliver’s announcement.

"The MassGOP supports the decision of Shawn Oliver to suspend his campaign for Lieutenant Governor,” Carnavale said. “Lives were put at risk and that is never acceptable. We now stand to assist Shawn in getting any help he needs to ensure he never puts himself or others in harm’s way again."

"We also recognize that Shawn Oliver is holding himself accountable for his actions and facing the consequences of this situation,” she said.

Details of the Dartmouth Street Crash and Arrest

According to the New Bedford Light, Oliver was arrested on charges of operating under the influence of alcohol, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, speeding, and a marked lanes violation. The Light reported that New Bedford Police responded to Dartmouth Street at about 11:40 p.m. on October 17 for a motor vehicle crash involving an overturned car that had struck multiple parked cars. Oliver was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of injuries and then placed under arrest.