NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — A Friday morning walk turned into a tragedy for the city of New Bedford, leaving a family heartbroken and a community grappling with yet another pedestrian fatality. Mary Patzsenski, a 70-year-old resident of New Bedford, has been identified as the victim killed in a collision at the intersection of Route 18 and Coggeshall Street on Friday, February 6, 2026.

The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that the driver involved, Andrew Johansen, 34, of Dartmouth, was arrested and arraigned on charges of motor vehicle homicide while operating under the influence (OUI). As the legal process begins, neighbors and friends are mourning the sudden loss of Ms. Patzsenski, a woman whose presence in the community will be deeply missed.

Breaking: Tragedy at Coggeshall Street

The incident occurred during the morning commute, a time when the intersection of Route 18 and Coggeshall Street is typically bustling with traffic. At approximately 8:30 a.m., New Bedford Police and EMS responded to reports of two pedestrians struck by a vehicle.

The Crash:

• The Victims: Mary Patzsenski and a second unidentified woman were walking near the intersection when they were struck by Johansen’s vehicle.

• The Aftermath: Both women were rushed to a local hospital. While the second victim miraculously sustained only minor injuries and was later released, Ms. Patzsenski’s injuries were catastrophic. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

A Pattern of Danger: This tragedy marks a disturbing trend for the area. According to local reports, Mary Patzsenski is the fifth pedestrian to be killed in the New Bedford area since the start of 2026. The rising number of fatalities has sparked renewed calls for road safety and driver awareness in the South Coast region.

The Suspect: Andrew Johansen Charged

Following the crash, police arrested the driver, Andrew Johansen. The charges levied against him paint a grim picture of the events leading up to the collision.

• Charges: Johansen is charged with Motor Vehicle Homicide by Operating Under the Influence (OUI) and negligent operation of a motor vehicle.

• Arraignment: He appeared in New Bedford District Court on Friday afternoon.

• Bail & Conditions: The judge set bail at $5,000. If posted, Johansen is required to wear a GPS monitoring device, adhere to a strict curfew, and remain completely alcohol-free.

• Next Court Date: The case is scheduled to return to court on March 6, 2026, for a probable cause hearing.

The Victim: Remembering Mary Patzsenski

Mary Patzsenski was 70 years old, a milestone age that usually signifies a time for rest, family, and reflection. Instead, her life was cut short in a moment of senseless violence. “A Life That Mattered”: While the headlines focus on the charges and the crash, those who knew Mary are focusing on the woman she was.

• Community Member: As a resident of New Bedford, she was part of the fabric of the city. Her sudden absence leaves a void in her neighborhood and among her circle of friends.

• Profound Loss: “Mary Patzsenski’s death has left family, friends, and neighbors grieving a profound loss,” the report notes. The shock of losing a loved one to a sudden accident is a trauma that takes a lifetime to process.

Community Reaction

The news of the crash has drawn reactions of anger and sadness from across New Bedford.

• Outrage: With this being the fifth pedestrian death in barely five weeks, residents are frustrated. Online comments and community forums are filled with condolences for the Patzsenski family and demands for stricter enforcement against impaired driving.

• Support: As the Patzsenski family navigates this incredibly difficult time, the community is expected to rally around them, offering the prayers and support needed to face the days ahead.

Conclusion

Mary Patzsenski deserved to finish her walk. She deserved to return home to her family. Her death is a stark, painful reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving. As the courts decide the fate of Andrew Johansen, the memory of Mary Patzsenski will remain with those who loved her.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mary Patzsenski.

Rest in Peace, Mary.

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Summary of Key Facts:

• Victim: Mary Patzsenski, 70, of New Bedford.

• Date: Friday, February 6, 2026.

• Time: Approx. 8:30 a.m.

• Location: Route 18 North & Coggeshall Street.

• Suspect: Andrew Johansen, 34, of Dartmouth.

• Charges: Motor Vehicle Homicide (OUI), Negligence.

• Status: Fatal for Patzsenski; Minor injuries for second victim.

We will update this report as the legal case against the driver progresses.