Onset firefighter struck during hit-and-run in critical condition

Police release details on suspect's car, seek tips
Mar 3, 2018

An Onset firefighter who was seriously injured while responding to a storm-related call Friday night remains in critical condition at Rhode Island Hospital, police said.

Officials said the firefighter, a 25-year-old man whose identity has not been released, was struck during a hit-and-run near the intersection of Onset Avenue and Cranberry Highway at approximately 7:30 p.m.

Police are searching for the person who hit the firefighter. On Saturday, officials said the suspect could possibly be driving a gray-colored, newer model Subaru hatchback. The car likely has extensive side mirror and front and passenger side damage. Police noted the car was headed east on Cranberry Highway toward Bourne immediately after striking the firefighter.

Anyone with information should call Wareham Police at 508-295-1212 or the department’s detective division at 508-295-1206. Anonymous tips can be made online at www.warehampolice.com via the department’s Text-A-Tip application.

Onset Fire Chief Ray Goodwin said firefighters were working to close the road near the Continental Marina’s boat storage facility before the hit-and-run. High winds were blowing sheet metal off the side the building onto the road.

“Pieces of steel were flying across the road like guillotines,” said Goodwin. “We thought someone was going to get killed.”

Goodwin said after the firefighter was struck, Bourne EMS and police arrived on the scene almost immediately to provide aid.

“Bourne went above and beyond the call of duty to help us out,” said Goodwin.