New details have emerged in the investigation into the fatal wrong-way crash that claimed the life of Massachusetts State Police Trooper Kevin Trainor on May 6, 2026, revealing that the wrong-way driver had consumed multiple alcoholic beverages before the collision.
According to a report released by Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker, 50-year-old Hernan Marrero of Roslindale was served a total of 10 alcoholic drinks during the evening, including nine drinks at Tribu Mexican Kitchen and Bar in Saugus. Marrero also died in the crash after his Jeep collided head-on with Trainor’s cruiser on Route 1 in Lynnfield shortly after 2:00 a.m.
Investigators determined that Marrero first visited a restaurant in Waltham before traveling to Tribu, where he remained from approximately 9:20 p.m. until 12:53 a.m. Toxicology results later showed his blood alcohol concentration was 0.192, more than twice Massachusetts’ legal limit.
The report states that after leaving the restaurant around 1:56 a.m., Marrero entered a turnaround in Peabody and ignored clearly posted “Wrong Way” and “Do Not Enter” signs before driving southbound in the northbound lanes of Route 1. Surveillance footage reportedly captured his vehicle striking a guardrail, running a red light, and continuing in the wrong direction.
A truck driver alerted authorities after encountering the wrong-way vehicle. Moments later, Trooper Kevin Trainor, who had just completed his shift and was responding after hearing the radio broadcast, attempted to intercept the Jeep. The vehicles collided approximately 1.8 miles later at highway speed.
Investigators concluded that the crash resulted solely from Marrero’s actions and not from any roadway signage issues. Officials also stated that Trooper Trainor’s courageous response likely prevented an even greater tragedy by attempting to stop the wrong-way driver before additional motorists were harmed.
A regulatory hearing involving the restaurant is scheduled as authorities continue reviewing potential alcohol service violations, though prosecutors have indicated criminal charges against the establishment are not supported by the available evidence.
