Motorcyclist charged in hit-and-run that killed Methuen woman

After a 62-year-old pedestrian was killed by a speeding motorcyclist in Methuen Sunday night, police began a search for the operator who had fled the scene. By Tuesday, a man from Andover was in court facing charges.

Martin Quinlan, who turned 29 on the day of the crash, was arraigned in Lawrence District Court Tuesday morning. He pleaded not guilty to one count of leaving the scene of personal injury and death and one learner’s permit violation, a spokesperson for the Essex County DA said.

The 62-year-old woman was found lying face down on Lowell Street, Methuen police said. An officer arrived after multiple people flagged down his cruiser for help. The officer and later paramedics administered medical aid before the pedestrian was transported to Lawrence General Hospital where she later died.

The motorcycle, with Quinlan allegedly operating, was seen on video surveillance speeding down Lowell Street, striking the pedestrian, slowing down, and stopping before continuing on. 

The woman was identified by her daughter as Pamela O’Neil, Boston 25 News reported. Erin said her mother was crossing the street to get to the store when she was hit.

“I thought I would have at least another decade with her,” Erin told the news station. “I would actually feel a little more forgiving if he did stay and help her, but the fact that he took one look at her and just kept going, it really upsets me.”