A different Dunkin’ shop struck by motor vehicle, but business survives a shutdown

By Mark E. Vogler

A 55-year-old Lynn man has lost his privilege to drive indefinitely after his Ford pickup truck struck the Dunkin’ building at 35 Lincoln Ave. last Friday (Oct. 11)

“Upon investigation, that driver was unable to explain to officers how he had driven into the building [and] as a result he was issued a citation for negligent operation,” the Saugus Police Department said in a press release about the accident, which occurred shortly after noon.

“In addition, the driver was reported to the RMV as an immediate threat. As a result of that report, he will lose his right to operate a motor vehicle pending a hearing,” the statement said.

The driver, who was not named, will appear at Lynn District Court sometime in the next few months, according to Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli. The chief said there is nothing additional to report at this time about the traffic citation the man faces.

This is the second time in the past six months that a motor vehicle has struck one of the town’s local Dunkin’ shops. The Dunkin’ shop at 42 Hamilton St. finally opened recently – just days before the Lincoln Avenue crash – after being closed since April.

Last Friday’s crash caused a temporary closure, while police and fire officials conducted their respective investigations and Inspectional services responded to assess the structural integrity of the building. But Chief Ricciardelli noted the coffee shop wasn’t closed for long.

“It appears as though the bollard barriers did what they are supposed to do and prevented the vehicle from going into the building,” Chief Ricciardelli told The Saugus Advocate.

“The vehicle came to rest against the building and there was no structural damage. I know that the restaurant was open for business the next morning,” the chief said.