A quiet day in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, was abruptly interrupted when a black BMW X5 SUV crashed at full speed into the building of the local police department. The driver later explained his actions with terrifying motives.
Harbinger of Tragedy
The driver was a 58-year-old man who, according to reports, stated that he wanted “suicide by cop” and warned people that the crash “would be stunning.” However, moments after the incident, he was asking for help and apologizing to rescuers, creating a stark contrast in his behavior.
The SUV crashed into the main doors of the Shrewsbury Police Department building with such force that it went through the lobby and crashed into the dispatch booth. Fortunately, three employees who were inside at the time were not injured.
Testimony and Charges
Court documents indicate that after the driver, Robert McCluskey, was pulled from the vehicle, he was asked if the crash was intentional. He replied: “Yes, sorry, sorry,” and asked rescuers to “help me.” An officer also noted that McCluskey smelled of alcohol.
According to media reports, McCluskey told several people about his plans before the crash, saying: “I want to be killed by the police,” and advised them to “watch the news, it will be spectacular. I’m going to end this.” Shortly after the collision, a call came into the 911 line warning that McCluskey was heading to the police station.
BREAKING: Shrewsbury Police say they believe someone intentionally drove through the lobby of their police station this afternoon. You can see the SUV completely inside the building. Chief tells us it even crashed into dispatch. Driver is in custody & at the hospital
The 58-year-old man was taken to the hospital immediately after the incident and then arrested. He has been charged with reckless operation of a motor vehicle, malicious destruction of property over $1,200, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon.
Prior Experience and Circumstances
Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson stated that McCluskey already has a prior charge for operating under the influence, and there is an active restraining order against him filed by the mother of his children. Anderson also noted that approximately 30 minutes before the crash, a training session was taking place in front of the police complex.
This case once again raises questions about the availability of psychological help and systems for responding to potentially dangerous mental states of individuals. Such incidents, where a vehicle is used as a weapon to attack public institutions, require not only legal assessment but also a deeper analysis of social prevention mechanisms. At the same time, the professional actions of the police officers and dispatchers, which allowed for the avoidance of casualties, deserve recognition.