New Bedford City Councilman Shawn Oliver, the Republican candidate for Massachusetts lieutenant governor, suspended his campaign on Sunday after he was arrested in connection with a drunken driving crash.
It happened around 11:40 Saturday night on Dartmouth Street in New Bedford.
Police said Oliver’s SUV overturned and hit multiple parked cars. A total of five vehicles were involved, two of which were seriously damaged.
Oliver was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment. Police said He was arrested after investigating the accident scene and the hospital.
Oliver was charged with driving under the influence, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, marked lane violation and speeding. He is scheduled to be arraigned Monday in New Bedford District Court.
Oliver, who represents District 3 on the New Bedford City Council, is running against Mike Milo for Republican lieutenant governor.
Milo issued a statement on Sunday calling on Oliver to suspend his campaign.
“I’m extremely disappointed. Sean is lucky to be alive and lucky that no innocent people were hurt. There is no excuse for driving under the influence,” Milo said. “After speaking with Sean, I asked him to suspend his campaign immediately and, if elected, I will formally ask for his resignation. Sean is a father and grandfather and he needs to put his family first. He needs to do a good job to ensure this never happens again. If he needs help, I will help him.”
Later, Oliver issued his first statement since his arrest, saying he was indeed ending his campaign. It’s unclear what will happen on the Republican side with just over two weeks until the election.
“This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters,” Oliver said. “I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me through this process and ask that my family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time.”
Shawn Oliver runs for lieutenant governor 
Massachusetts Republican Party spokesperson Amy Carnevale later issued a statement supporting Oliver’s decision.
“The Massachusetts Republican Party supports Sean Oliver’s decision to suspend his campaign for lieutenant governor. It is never acceptable to put lives at risk. We will now assist Sean in getting any help he needs to ensure he no longer puts himself or others in danger,” Carnevale said. “We also recognize that Sean Oliver is taking responsibility for his actions and facing the consequences of this situation.”
New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, a Democrat, called the allegations “deeply concerning.”
Milo and Oliver are running as Republican candidates for governor and lieutenant governor against incumbent Democrats Maura Healey and Kim Driscoll.
A spokesperson for Healey said they had no comment at this time.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3rd.