10-year-old killed in crash after suspect stole SUV in Plainville, police say

A child is dead after a suspect stole a vehicle and crashed it into a car on Route 495 in Plainville.

According to state police, Michael Escolas, 42 of Oxford allegedly stole a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee from a parking lot at Gillette Stadium around 8:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Escolas was traveling at a high rate of speed when he collided with a Nissan Altima stopped at a red light near the intersection of Route 1 and Interstate 495.

The Nissan was carrying a family of 6, including a mother, father, and their 4 children. Everyone inside the vehicle was transported to the hospital with serious injuries and one 10-year-old child was pronounced dead at the hospital.

A source said only one child was in a car seat.

“Dealing with this chaotic scene and evacuating seven people to area hospitals required the help and participation of many partner agencies,” District Attorney Morrissey said, “I offer my thanks to all who responded, and my sincere condolences to the family who lost their son.”

The crash also resulted in damage to 4 cars in addition to the Nissan including the Jeep.

State Police working the Kenny Chesney concert at Gillette Stadium responded to the scene.

“We are deeply saddened and extend our sincerest condolences to the family who has tragically lost a loved one. We are working with the Massachusetts State Police, who are doing the investigation under the jurisdiction of the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office, to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Once again, we offer our heartfelt sympathies to the family,” said Stacey James, Spokesperson, for Gillette Stadium.

Escolas was arrested at the scene for suspected driving under the influence. He was subsequently transported to an area hospital with injuries where he remains in custody, state police say.

Route 1 southbound at Route 495 with I-495 and the I-495 exits onto Route 1 north and south were closed while first responders investigated.

The DA says the car was stolen from lot P10 which is a Gillette Stadium parking lot.

Due to the child’s age, the identity of the child will not be released at this time, state police say.

Escolas is expected to be arraigned on charges of motor vehicle manslaughter, OUI, larceny of a motor vehicle, and associated charges. He remains in custody in lieu of $25,000 cash bail. He’s expected to be in Wrentham District Court on Monday.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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