A Republican candidate for lieutenant governor of Massachusetts has suspended his campaign following a late-night drunk driving arrest that left his vehicle overturned and five parked cars damaged in New Bedford.

Campaign Ends After Saturday Night Crash

Shawn Oliver, who serves on the New Bedford City Council, announced Sunday he was suspending his lieutenant governor campaign after crashing his vehicle near a shopping plaza on Dartmouth Street around 11:40 p.m. Saturday. Police reports indicate Oliver’s car struck five parked vehicles before overturning, with two of the parked cars sustaining extensive damage. Emergency responders transported Oliver to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment before authorities arrested him.

Oliver faces multiple charges including operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, and speeding. In a statement released Sunday, Oliver said the election was too important to be overshadowed by personal matters and requested privacy for his family during this difficult time.

WCVB-TV Boston

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The Republican candidate for Massachusetts Lt. Gov. was arrested early Sunday morning on operating under the influence charges in New Bedford, the city’s police department and mayor’s office confirmed.

2:53 PM · Oct 18, 2026

Running Mate Demands Exit

Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue called for Oliver to step aside before the campaign suspension was announced. Minogue expressed extreme disappointment while acknowledging that Oliver was fortunate no innocent people were injured in the collision. He emphasized there is no acceptable excuse for driving under the influence and offered support to help ensure Oliver avoids future incidents. Minogue stated he had spoken directly with Oliver about putting his family first during this challenging period.

Local and Party Leaders Respond

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell labeled the allegations deeply concerning and said the public deserves to hear Oliver’s explanation of what transpired Saturday night. Massachusetts Republican Party Chair Amy Carnevale confirmed the party learned of the accident Sunday morning and was awaiting additional information. The incident comes at a critical time in the Massachusetts gubernatorial race, forcing the Republican ticket to operate without a lieutenant governor candidate. Oliver has not yet retained legal representation to address the pending criminal charges, according to available information.