Lynn, MA — February 7, 2025, one person was killed in a tow truck accident at about 6:20 a.m. on North Common Street.
Authorities said a 2014 Dodge tow truck hit a pedestrian near Hanover Street. The truck had one vehicle in tow and another in its tow bed.
The pedestrian, a 78-year-old woman whose name has not been made public at this time, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, according to authorities.
No other injuries were reported.
Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash at this time. The accident is still under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When a tow truck strikes and kills a pedestrian, the most pressing question is how did the crash happen? Many people assume pedestrian accidents occur because someone stepped into traffic without warning, but my experience tells me that visibility, driver awareness and road conditions are just as important to consider.
One key issue is whether the tow truck driver saw the pedestrian in time to react. Tow trucks have large blind spots, particularly around the front and sides. If the driver was distracted, fatigued or simply not scanning the road properly, they may not have noticed the pedestrian until it was too late. Investigators should check for dashcam footage, witness statements and any available surveillance video to determine what the driver could or should have seen.
Speed is another major factor. This crash happened early in the morning, likely in low-light conditions. Was the driver traveling at a speed that allowed them to stop safely if a pedestrian was in the road? The tow truck’s engine control module (ECM) data could provide insight into speed and braking before the crash.
Right-of-way also matters. Was the pedestrian crossing at a marked crosswalk? Did she have a walk signal? If the tow truck was turning, did the driver yield as required? Investigators should examine traffic signals, signage and road design to determine whether either party had a legal right-of-way.
At this stage, there are more questions than answers. But if authorities only focus on the fact that a pedestrian was hit without digging deeper into visibility, speed and driver awareness, key details may be overlooked. A thorough investigation should determine not just what happened, but why.
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