Franklin, MA Tragedy: Young Girl Killed, Family Injured in Crash Involving Alleged Drunk Driver
21-Year-Old Facing Multiple Charges Including Motor Vehicle Homicide
Franklin, MA – A quiet Saturday evening in Franklin turned tragic when a devastating car crash claimed the life of a young girl and left her mother and brother seriously injured. The accident occurred just before 6:30 p.m. on Grove Street, and authorities have confirmed that the driver of the second vehicle involved, 21-year-old James Blanchard of Franklin, is now facing a slate of serious charges, including drunk driving and motor vehicle homicide.
The Crash
According to the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office, the crash involved a passenger vehicle carrying a family of four and a pickup truck driven by Blanchard. Preliminary information indicates that the family’s car was struck by the pickup truck in what officials are calling a high-impact collision.
The girl, whose identity and age have not been released, was rushed to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. Her mother and brother remain hospitalized with serious, life-threatening injuries. The father, who was driving, sustained less severe injuries and has since been treated and released.
Charges and Arrest
James Blanchard was arrested at the scene and has been charged with:
- Three counts of Operating Under the Influence (OUI) causing serious bodily injury
- Motor vehicle homicide while operating under the influence and negligently
- Operating a motor vehicle with an open container of alcohol
Authorities report that Blanchard showed clear signs of intoxication and that an open container of alcohol was found in his vehicle. He is currently being held on $500,000 bail and is expected to be arraigned Tuesday in Wrentham District Court.
A Family Forever Changed
Though the names of the victims have not been publicly released, the emotional weight of this tragedy is already rippling through the Franklin community. Neighbors and local residents are mourning the senseless loss of a young life and expressing heartbreak for the family who went from an ordinary day to unimaginable devastation in a matter of seconds.
First responders at the scene described a chaotic and heartbreaking scene. Emergency personnel worked swiftly to extract victims and provide immediate medical care, but for the young girl, the efforts tragically were not enough.
Community Response and Outrage
In a community known for its tight-knit bonds and family values, the incident has sparked both grief and outrage. Many are calling for stricter enforcement of drunk driving laws and are asking how a 21-year-old, allegedly driving under the influence and with alcohol in the car, could end up causing such a tragic and irreversible event.
Social media platforms have begun to fill with condolences, tributes, and calls for justice. Some community members have begun organizing vigils and outreach efforts to support the grieving family, while others are demanding accountability and systemic change to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Statement from District Attorney
District Attorney Michael Morrissey issued a somber statement:
“This is a heartbreaking and avoidable tragedy. A young life has been lost, and a family has been irreparably changed, all due to a senseless act of drinking and driving. We will pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law.”
He further reminded the public of the dangers of impaired driving and urged community members to make responsible choices.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues and legal proceedings begin, the Franklin community is left grappling with grief and disbelief. A family is shattered, a community is in mourning, and a young girl is gone far too soon — all due to what appears to be a reckless, preventable decision.
This incident stands as yet another painful reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence. It is a call to action — for safer roads, more responsible choices, and support for those left behind in the wake of tragedy.
If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol use, please seek help. No moment of indulgence is worth a lifetime of regret — or the cost of a life.
