Harwich, MA – Cape Cod Community Mourns Mario Da Paixao Andrade Following Fatal Route 6 Crash; Centerville Man Charged with Manslaughter While OUI
A tragic motor vehicle collision on Route 6 has claimed the life of 48-year-old Mario Da Paixao Andrade, a beloved member of the Hyannis Brazilian community. In an announcement made by Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert J. Galibois, authorities confirmed that 49-year-old Zachary Fena of Centerville has been charged in connection with the fatal crash, which occurred Thursday evening, April 3, 2025.
The Incident
At approximately 5:30 p.m., the Massachusetts State Police Yarmouth Barracks received multiple 911 calls reporting a serious two-vehicle crash near mile marker 84.2 in Harwich. When troopers arrived, they found debris littering both the eastbound and westbound lanes of Route 6 and two severely damaged vehicles.
According to investigators, Fena’s vehicle, a heavily damaged car facing west in the median, had swerved multiple times before veering across the median from the eastbound lane into westbound traffic. It was there that it collided head-on with Andrade’s vehicle, which came to rest in the eastbound breakdown lane, crumpled against the guardrail.
Eyewitnesses on scene confirmed seeing Fena’s erratic driving prior to the crash, including sudden acceleration and swerving. Emergency responders from the Harwich Fire Department determined that Andrade, the sole occupant of his vehicle, was no longer viable for resuscitation and pronounced him dead at the scene.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Fena was transported to Cape Cod Hospital for evaluation and was found to be under the influence of alcohol. Based on evidence gathered at the scene, probable cause was established, and Fena was taken into custody.
He now faces multiple charges, including:
- Manslaughter while operating under the influence
- Motor vehicle homicide OUI – Liquor or .08% negligent
- Operating under the influence (OUI)
- Negligent operation of a motor vehicle
- Marked lanes violation
Fena was arraigned in Orleans District Court, where the Commonwealth requested $10,000 bail. The court ultimately ordered $5,000 bail with conditions of release. He is scheduled to return to court on May 5, 2025, for a probable cause hearing.
Remembering Mario Da Paixao Andrade
The community has been deeply shaken by the loss of Mario Andrade. According to a GoFundMe campaign launched by family and friends, Andrade had lived in the United States for more than two decades and was well-known and respected in the Brazilian community of Hyannis. Described as a kind, hardworking man, Mario’s sudden passing has left his family and friends devastated.
Funds raised will help support funeral arrangements and the family’s wish to repatriate his remains to his native Brazil, a final journey home for a man who made the U.S. his home but never lost connection to his roots.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The crash remains under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office, the State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, the Crime Scene Services Section, and local departments in Harwich. Authorities are working to ensure a complete and thorough analysis of the tragic incident.
District Attorney Galibois offered his condolences to the Andrade family, stating, “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of Mr. Andrade during this incredibly difficult time.”
As the legal process unfolds, the Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
A Community in Mourning
The death of Mario Andrade is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact of impaired driving. His absence will be felt not only by his family but by the entire community of Cape Cod, especially in Hyannis, where he touched so many lives. As friends, neighbors, and fellow members of the Brazilian community mourn his loss, they also rally together in support, honoring his memory with love and solidarity.
Rest in peace, Mario Da Paixao Andrade. Your legacy and presence will never be forgotten.