Marblehead, Massachusetts, August 19, 2025
News Summary
A 16-year-old boy has been arrested for operating under the influence after a crash that left a 13-year-old girl dead at the scene in Marblehead. The incident occurred near 352 Atlantic Avenue, where emergency crews found an overturned vehicle early Tuesday morning. An ongoing investigation is being conducted by local police with support from the Essex District Attorney’s office. Community members are encouraged to share any information or evidence related to the crash.
Marblehead — A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on an operating under the influence (OUI) charge after a single-vehicle crash early Tuesday that left a 13-year-old girl dead at the scene.
The collision occurred just before 3 a.m. near 352 Atlantic Avenue. Emergency crews found an overturned vehicle with an out-of-state license plate. The 13-year-old girl sustained life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identity has not been released.
Arrest, treatment and charges
The 16-year-old male, believed to be the driver, was treated for injuries at the scene or a nearby medical facility and subsequently taken into custody on an OUI charge. Charging decisions were handled through the Essex District Attorney’s office. State troopers assigned to the district attorney’s office are assisting Marblehead police with the investigation.
Scene details and evidence
Video and photos from the scene show visible skid marks leading to a stone wall, dislodged debris, and an overturned vehicle. First responders were photographed working at the site. A nearby resident reported that the impact sounded like an explosion, describing it as similar to loud firework or 4th of July noises. The roadway at the crash site was closed while investigators processed evidence and the scene; authorities reopened the road at about 7:30 a.m.
Agency involvement and public information
Essex District Attorney Paul F. Tucker and Marblehead Police Chief Dennis King provided statements to investigators and the public about the incident. Marblehead Detective Sergeant Sean Brady is the designated contact for anyone who has information about the crash. He can be reached at 781-631-1212. Officials have not released the names of those involved because both are minors and because the investigation is ongoing.
Ongoing investigation
Investigators continue to examine the vehicle, scene evidence, and any available video to establish the sequence of events leading to the collision. Forensic work included documenting skid marks, mapping debris patterns, and photographing damage to the vehicle and surrounding structures. Authorities have indicated that further updates will be released as new information becomes available.
What happened next
The arrested teen faces OUI charges and may face additional charges pending the outcome of the investigation. The complaint will be managed through the Essex District Attorney’s office. Because the case involves minors and a pending criminal investigation, officials have limited the release of identifying information and other details that could affect legal proceedings.
Safety and community context
The crash prompted emergency response from local police, fire, and medical services and led to temporary road closures that affected nearby traffic during the morning rush. Investigators work to determine whether speed, impairment, road conditions or other factors played a role. Community members and witnesses have been asked to share any video or information that could help piece together what occurred in the moments before the crash.
How to provide information
Anyone with photos, video, or relevant details about the crash is asked to contact Marblehead Detective Sergeant Sean Brady at 781-631-1212. Investigators welcome tips that can help establish a clearer timeline and identify contributing factors.
FAQ
What happened?
A single-vehicle crash occurred just before 3 a.m. near 352 Atlantic Avenue in Marblehead. The vehicle overturned, a 13-year-old girl was found with life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. A 16-year-old boy believed to be the driver was treated for injuries and arrested on an OUI charge.
Who has been charged?
A 16-year-old male was arrested and charged with operating under the influence. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Has the victim been identified?
No. Authorities have not released the identity of the 13-year-old girl.
Who is investigating?
Marblehead Police are leading the investigation with assistance from state troopers assigned to the Essex District Attorney’s office. The DA’s office is managing charging decisions.
How can I share information?
Anyone with information, photos, or video related to the crash should contact Marblehead Detective Sergeant Sean Brady at 781-631-1212.
Was the road closed?
The road near the crash site was closed for several hours for evidence processing and reopened at approximately 7:30 a.m.
Quick reference table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near 352 Atlantic Avenue, Marblehead, Massachusetts |
| Time | Just before 3:00 a.m. on Tuesday |
| Injuries and fatalities | 13-year-old girl sustained life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene; 16-year-old treated for injuries |
| Arrest | 16-year-old male arrested and charged with operating under the influence |
| Vehicle details | Overturned vehicle with out-of-state license plate; visible skid marks and debris |
| Investigating agencies | Marblehead Police, Essex District Attorney’s office, state troopers assisting |
| Road status | Closed for several hours; reopened at about 7:30 a.m. |
| Contact for tips | Marblehead Detective Sergeant Sean Brady — 781-631-1212 |
| Investigation status | Ongoing; further updates expected as new information becomes available |
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HERE Resources
Tragic Crash Claims Life of 13-Year-Old Girl in Marblehead
Additional Resources
- Boston 25 News: 16-Year-Old Boy Facing OUI Charge
- Wikipedia: Operating Under the Influence
- Boston 25 News: Scene of Crash That Toppled Utility Pole
- Google Search: Car Crash Safety
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- Google Scholar: Teen Drivers Safety
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