Shawn Oliver, Republican candidate for Massachusetts Lt. Gov., suspends campaign after arrest

Updated on: October 18, 2026 / 2:31 PM EDT / CBS Boston

Shawn Oliver, a New Bedford City Council member and Republican candidate for Massachusetts lieutenant governor, suspended his campaign after an alleged drunk driving crash late Saturday night led to his arrest.

It happened around 11:40 p.m. on Dartmouth Street in New Bedford.

Police said Oliver's SUV flipped over and slammed into multiple parked cars. In total, five cars were involved and two were heavily damaged.

Oliver was taken to St. Luke's Hospital for treatment. Police said that after an investigation at the scene of the crash and the hospital, Oliver was arrested.

He is charged with operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, marked lanes violation and speeding.

Oliver, who represents Ward 3 on the New Bedford City Council, was running for lieutenant governor on the Republican ticket with Mike Minogue.

Minogue released a statement Sunday, calling for Oliver to suspend his campaign.

"I am extremely disappointed. Shawn is lucky to be alive and lucky that no one innocent was hurt. There is no excuse for driving under the influence," Minogue said. "After speaking with Shawn, I am asking him to suspend his…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/world/