Prayers and support for Commander Lt. Bossi

Saugus selectmen joined Gov. and officials from across the state in expressing their concerns for the state police commander and longtime town resident who was nearly killed by a Revere teen who drove over him with a stolen motorcycle on Monday

By Mark E. Vogler

Before adjourning until after the July Fourth holiday on Tuesday night, selectmen pledged their support and prayers for state Police Lt. Donald Bossi, who suffered life-threatening injuries earlier this week after being struck by a teenager driving a stolen motorcycle. “I’d just like to extend my prayers and best wishes for a speedy recovery to State Trooper Lt. Donnie Bossi,” Selectman Corinne Riley said of the longtime town resident.

“He was a victim of a hit-and-run on Revere Beach Boulevard,” she said.

“It’s a dangerous job and I want to thank him for all he does to keep everybody safe. My best again to the Bossi family, and Donnie – have a speedy recovery,” she said.

Lt. Bossi, station commander of the State Police Revere Barracks, was seriously injured shortly before 5 p.m. on Monday (June 23) when a Revere teenager drove over him, ditched his motorcycle and then fled the scene.

“The Massachusetts State Police would like to express our appreciation for the public support of Lieutenant Donald Bossi, his family, and our Department in the aftermath of this terrible incident,” Colonel Geoffrey Noble – head of the Massachusetts State Police – said in statement on Tuesday.

“Yesterday’s senseless crash could have proven fatal if not for the resilience and extraordinary strength of Lieutenant Bossi, and the care he received on scene, in transit, and at the hospital. Our community is safer because of the many Troopers who set their feelings aside in the aftermath of this event to do their jobs and meet the moment by apprehending the fleeing suspect. We remain very grateful for these positive developments,” Col. Noble said.

Akram El Moukhtari, 18, of Revere, later turned himself in. He was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, receiving a stolen vehicle and leaving the scene of personal injury.

Officials say Bossi was thrown 45 feet across the road, leaving him with serious injuries. The injured trooper was transported to Mass General Hospital and was initially reported to be in critical condition. His condition had improved to stable condition by press time this week.

Governor Maura Healey noted this was the second time this month that a state trooper was struck while in the roadway. “This incident is another stark reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face every day,” the governor said.

“I am grateful for their continued bravery and service,” she said.

Lt. Bossi’s hometown is East Boston, Mass. He went to Don Bosco Technical High School and graduated in 1986. He studied Criminology at Saint Leo University, receiving his degree in 1986. He bought a home in East Saugus in 1994 and got married to a Saugus native, and they raised three children – all who graduated from Saugus High School.

Lt. Bossi’s wife – Susan Bossi – is a longtime Saugus educator who is currently a reading teacher at Belmonte STEAM Academy.

“I know Donnie through his wife,” Selectman Riley said.

“I’m closer to her. What I know is he’s a nice guy, wonderful husband and dad. And obviously a trooper that puts his life on the line every day,” she said.

Before the crash, Suffolk Assistant District Attorney John Verner said in court, suspect El Moukhtari sped through a red light while “driving recklessly” and was “popping wheelies” on the stolen motorcycle. Verner said Bossi was captured on video exiting his cruiser and stepping into a lane of traffic. Seconds later, El Moukhtari allegedly drove by at a high rate of speed.

“What a horrific experience. People disrespecting law enforcement has to stop,” Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta said.

“I’m wishing Lt. Bossi a speedy recover from his injuries,” she said.

“The Bossi Family would like to thank the public and Lieutenant Bossi’s colleagues at the Barracks and across the job for their outpouring of support,” according to a statement issued by the State Police.

“They respectfully request privacy at this time while they focus on Lieutenant Bossi’s recovery,” the statement said.