NEW BEDFORD — Shawn Oliver, the Republican nominee for Massachusetts lieutenant governor, suspended his campaign Sunday after allegedly crashing into five parked vehicles while driving under the influence of alcohol Saturday night.
Oliver, 42, who also serves on the New Bedford City Council, announced the suspension of his campaign on Facebook Sunday afternoon. Oliver’s announcement came after his running mate, Republican gubernatorial nominee Mike Minogue, called on him to suspend his campaign. Minogue is challenging Democratic Gov. Maura Healey, who is seeking a second term.
“After careful reflection, I have made the decision to suspend my campaign for lieutenant governor,” Oliver wrote. “This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters.”
On Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at approximately 11:40 p.m., police responded to to 448 Dartmouth Street after a vehicle struck five parked cars and overturned, the New Bedford Police Department reported. Two of the parked vehicles sustained extensive damage.
Oliver was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of his injuries. Following an investigation at the scene and hospital, police arrested him on charges of operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, a marked lanes violation, and speeding.
Oliver was booked at the Ash Street Jail at approximately 6:45 a.m. Sunday and released shortly after 9:00 a.m., according to The New Bedford Light.
In a statement on X posted at 11:31 a.m. Sunday, Minogue called on Oliver to suspend his campaign immediately, saying he was “extremely disappointed” and that Oliver was “lucky to be alive and lucky that no one innocent was hurt.” Minogue added that he would formally request Oliver’s resignation if elected.
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. After speaking with Shawn, I am asking him to suspend his campaign immediately, and when elected, I will formally ask for his resignation. Shawn is a father and grandfather, and he needs to put his family first. He needs to do the work to ensure this never happens again. If he needs help with that, I will help him. As governor, I will put the Commonwealth first. That starts with accountability, something Massachusetts has not seen from Maura Healey.
— Mike Minogue | MA Gov Candidate (@mikeminoguema) October 18, 2026
Massachusetts Republican Party Chairwoman Amy Carnevale backed Oliver’s decision to suspend his campaign.
“Lives were put at risk and that is never acceptable,” Chairwoman Carnevale said. “We now stand to assist Shawn in getting any help he needs to ensure he never puts himself or others in harm’s way again.”
Oliver’s name will remain on the Nov. 3 ballot alongside Minogue’s.
