10-year-old killed in alcohol-related accident; suspect allegedly stole SUV from Kenny Chesney concert

(WJAR) — An Oxford man is in custody after he allegedly stole an SUV from a Kenny Chesney concert at Gillette Stadium and then crashed it into a car in Plainville on Saturday night, killing a 10-year-old child and injuring five other family members.

Massachusetts State Police said 42-year-old Michael Escolas was traveling at a high rate of speed in a stolen 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee on Route 1 South around 8:30 p.m.

Escolas then struck a Nissan Altima that was stopped at a red light near the intersection of Route 1 and I-495.

There were six family members in the Nissan – a mother, a father and their four children.

All six family members were seriously injured and taken to local hospitals.

A 10-year-old child was pronounced dead in hospital.

According to police, four other vehicles were damaged in the collision.

Police officers who were on duty at the Chesney concert were on the way to the accident.

Route 1 South at I-495 and nearby exits to Route 1 North and South were closed until shortly before midnight.

Escolas was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and taken to a local hospital, where he remains in custody.

“We extend our condolences to the family for the loss of their child. Due to the child's age and out of respect for the family, we will not be releasing his identity during this difficult time,” state police said in a statement.

The incident is under investigation.