'It was an accident': Bradley Rein charged in Apple Store crash claims his foot got 'stuck on accelerator'
HINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS: Bradley Rein, who allegedly rammed his SUV into an Apple store told the police that his foot got "stuck on the accelerator." In the incident, at least one person died and 19 others were injured on Monday, November 21. The 53-year-old has been held on the count of reckless homicide and reckless operation of a motor vehicle amid a crash at the Derby Street Shops in Hingham, confirmed Tim Cruz, Plymouth County District Attorney. The man is held on $100,000 bail and pleaded not guilty to the charges levied.
The only victim who died has been identified as Kevin Bradley, 65, of Wayne, New Jersey, said Plymouth County Assistant District Attorney, David Cutshell in Tuesday’s release, November 22. "We are devastated by the shocking events at Apple Derby Street today and the tragic loss. Our hearts go out to our team members and customers who were injured and all of those who were affected by this terrible incident. We are doing everything we can to support our team members and customers at this very difficult time," said an Apple spokesperson, as reported by People.
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"Though the outcome of this accident was horrific … It was just that. It was an accident," said Alison King, Rein's court-appointed lawyer. "He was cooperative with police and was not under the influence of alcohol. ... It's just really unfortunate," King added.
"While driving in the area of Barnes and Noble, Mr. Rein stated his right foot became stuck on the accelerator and his vehicle accelerated. Mr. Rein stated he used his left foot to try to brake, but was unable to stop the vehicle and crashed through the front of the Apple store," as per a police report by State Trooper Andrew Chiachio, reported The Patriot Ledger.
"Most of (the victims) sustained serious bodily injury," said Cutshell, as per the report. Cruz said he isn’t sure at what speed the vehicle was going but added that people were walking on the sidewalk in front of the store at the sight of Tuesday’s crash. "There are a lot of questions, but I don't have a lot of answers for you," Cruz said.
The upmarket Derby Street shops' back corner is where the Apple Store is located with a massive glass storefront. It is a busy drive-through with a vast parking lot that the store's entrance confronts. Since it is a holiday week, a lot of people at the Apple Store and the nearby eateries were seen, as per the report.
"The Apple store is a very busy place," Cruz said. "It's the Monday of a holiday week. I don't know exactly how many people were in there. I'm sure we will find out. ... We are going to go slow and steady with this, and get the information as we get it."
Cruz also appreciated Derby Street shoppers and employees for their quick response at the scene. "I think they saved a lot of lives." The Derby Street shops reopened on Tuesday, November 22.