Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Saturday, July 18, 2026
10 WJAR: "Improvements coming to Franklin intersection where teen was killed" (video)
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash Involving Bicyclist Under Investigation
Officers from the Franklin Police Department and members of the Franklin Fire Department responded to the scene and immediately initiated life-saving measures. The bicyclist was transported to UMass Memorial Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The victim has been identified as a 15-year-old Franklin resident.
The crash remains under investigation by the Franklin Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, and the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office. The operator of the involved vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.
The Franklin Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic incident.
No other information is being released at this time. Any other inquiries should be made to the Norfolk District Attorney's Office.
Monday, May 26, 2025
Auto accident updated: one fatality, driver arrested for OUI
Via the Boston Globe:
"A girl died and two others suffered serious injuries after, police say, a drunk driver struck another car in Franklin on Saturday evening.James N. Blanchard, 21, of Franklin, was arrested at the scene and charged with motor vehicle homicide while driving negligently and under the influence of alcohol, according to a statement released by the Norfolk District Attorney’s office.The crash occurred around 6:22 p.m. in the area of 76 Grove St., according to the statement.The girl, whose name was not released, was rushed to the hospital where she was later pronounced dead, according to the statement."
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Franklin Police: Motor Vehicle Crash - Grove Street
Saturday, December 17, 2022
Franklin Police Media Release - Accidental Death - 12/16/22
| Accidental Death - 12/16/22 |
Shared from Town of Franklin -> https://www.franklinma.gov/police-department
Thursday, November 11, 2021
Franklin Police: Crash with property damage under investigation
"The Franklin Police Department is currently investigating an incident at roughly 10:43 PM November 9, with a Jordan Road resident reporting that a Ford F450 truck had crashed into her garage, damaging that structure and a vehicle within that garage.
The driver of the truck was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, treated and released. Although the investigation is ongoing and not yet completed, charges are anticipated.
The suspect driver is a sworn member of the Franklin Police Department but was not on duty at the time of the incident. The officer is being placed on paid administrative leave by the Town Administrator. Further information will be released should charges be taken."
Copy of the Police Media Release -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1B6w481-au6lLe9ORd9XiQwUmpC7XgJI2/view?usp=sharing
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| Franklin Police: Crash with property damage under investigation |
Tuesday, September 29, 2020
In the News: "Lawmakers make plea for federal dollars"; 3 year old loses part of leg in accident
From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:
"Dozens of lawmakers want the Baker administration to act promptly to aid workers who missed out on up to $1,800 in additional benefits because of “arbitrary” and “punitive” eligibility requirements.
More than 110 legislators, almost all Democrats and no Republicans, wrote to Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Rosalin Acosta on Thursday, urging her to work with the House and Senate to raise the state’s minimum unemployment benefit payments so all recipients can access a pool of federal aid.
A small but unclear number of Bay State residents facing major economic strain fell just short of qualifying for the temporary Lost Wages Assistance federal program, lawmakers say, blocking off additional aid that could help them survive the pandemic’s continuing upheaval."
"Sarah Reardon “got the kind of phone call that no parent ever wants to get.”She was unpacking boxes on Aug. 22 at her new home in Franklin while her two daughters, Alexa, 6, and Abigail, 3, stayed at their father’s home in Lakeville for a few days. That Saturday, she received a hysterical call from her children’s father riding in the back of an ambulance.Abigail had been backed over by a riding lawn mower.He told her the ambulance was on its way toward Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island, which had the closest Level 1 Trauma center."
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
Live reporting: Legislation for Action
| 9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS |
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
nothing now, will be getting going soon
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee
preliminary discussion this evening, next meeting Dec 12 at 5:45
d. Town Administrator Search Committee to be updated in another portion of the agenda |
| 10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION | |
| 10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Resolution 18-65: Conditional Offer of Town Administrator Position to Current Deputy Town Administrator (Motion to Approve Resolution 18-65- Majority Vote (5))
Kelly - Chair of search committee
none of the applicants were from Franklin
(audio recording of the meeting is available and has been posted here previously)
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/11/town-administrator-search-subcommittee.html
recap of items mentioned during subcommittee meeting
Pellegri - ditto to everything Kelly said
assistants need to be developed for these roles
Hamblen - we're looking for a candidate with the best qualifications to fulfill the spot, Jamie gets Franklin, he has been around, volunteering even on the decoration effort recently
Jones - there is a logical path, some sense for what we do. When he was hired three years ago, he has worked closely with us, this is a person who is ready willing and able to make Franklin better.
Padula - you have to earn this job, we are absolutely spoiled with the best in Jeff Nutting, people want to emulate Franklin, applaud this search committee for making this decision. He has a great attitude, he gets it. He has been on a three year job interview. I think we are through that and he fits the bill for us. I want this because he will make our job easier.
Dellorco - commend you for making this decision, it wasn't handed to him. He has got to be the best guy, I have been on the council 8 years, and I never call Jeff anymore, I call Jamie.
Earls - I have been impressed with his professionalism and wide range of experience; apprenticeship the last three years
Mercer - on the search committee this gave me some insights to what is out there. Three years ago, I was part of the committee that has hired Hellen. He has been mentored by the best and has done a great job. I am looking for someone who cares. Jamie cares about the community.
motion to approve, seconded, passed 9-0
via roll call
Jamie does have some 'prepared' remarks
|
| 10f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-821: Zoning Map Changes On Or Near Plain Street, Pond Street, and Palomino Drive - 1st Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-821 to a 2nd Reading-Majority Vote (5))
motion to approve, seconded, passed 9-0
|
| 10g. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-822: Changes to §185-20. Signs - Referral to the Planning Board (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-822 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote (5))
motion to waive reading, seconded, passed 9-0 motion to refer to planning board, seconded, passed 9-0 |
| 10h. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-823: Changes To Sign District Regulations - Referral to the Planning Board (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-823 to the Planning Board- Majority Vote (5))
motion to waive reading, seconded, passed 9-0 motion to refer to planning board, seconded, passed 9-0 |
| 10i. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-824: Changes to Sign District Overlay Map- Referral to the Planning Board (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-824 to the Planning Board- Majority Vote (5))
motion to waive reading, seconded, passed 9-0 motion to refer to planning board, seconded, passed 9-0 |
| 10j. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Bylaw Amendment 18-825: Chapter 47, Alcoholic Beverages- 1st Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 18-825 to a 2nd Reading - Majority Vote (5))
effectively a modification to the existing bylaw to enable THE BLACK BOX and other entertainment establishments to apply for an annual liquor license without having to do the single license per event that they have been doing. motion to move to 2nd reading, seconded, passed 9-0 |
| 10k. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Bylaw Amendment 18-828: Fees Bylaw Changes- 1st Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 18-828 to a 2nd Reading- Majority Vote (5))
a series of tweaks based upon feedback and items just missed previously, adding a fee waiver for Beaver St Recycling for those who qualify by income motion to move to 2nd reading, seconded, passed 9-0 |
Sunday, August 27, 2017
“A lot of these issues have to do with congestion”
"MetroWest in recent years has become an economic hub home to numerous global corporations and businesses.
The large corporations bring increased tax revenue for local communities and much-needed jobs, but also more commuters and traffic congestion to the area’s main thoroughfare – Interstate 495.
“The congestion has increased dramatically the past 15 years,” said Stephanie Hirshon, executive director of the MetroWest/495 Transportation Management Association.
With more congestion comes more car crashes, said Hirson and Milford Fire Chief William Touhey."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170826/officials-hope-to-reduce-crashes-on-i-495
Thursday, October 13, 2016
In the News: superintendent search, 4 legs to stand on, Franklin motorcycle driver crashes
"The Franklin School District hopes to finish its search for a new superintendent early next year.
The School Committee held its first work session Tuesday with the firm it has hired to conduct the process, and set a tentative schedule for its search.
Committee Chairman Kevin O'Malley said he was pleased with the results of the initial session, but the district must move quickly.
"We are competing for candidates with other school districts," he said. "We have to feel that pressure."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161012/schedule-set-for-franklin-superintendent-search
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| Franklin Municipal Building |
"A local group dedicated to fighting the opioid abuse crisis will be taking an unusual tack of spreading its message: by putting on a show.
The Support for Addicts and Families through Empowerment (SAFE) Coalition will be hosting a theater production of "Four Legs to Stand On," which dramatizes the struggles that the epidemic presents. The show will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 27 at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School and at 7 p.m. on Oct. 28 at the Black Box theater."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161012/theater-production-in-franklin-to-address-addiction
"A 56-year-old Franklin man riding a motorcycle was taken to the hospital Tuesday night after a three-vehicle crash on a busy part of South Main Street.
The crash, reported at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, involved three vehicles – a 2008 Suzuki motorcycle, a 2004 Toyota Corolla and a 2002 Cadillac Seville.
One of the sedans was traveling north on the street and was attempting to take a left into McDonalds. The other sedan, traveling in the opposite direction, stopped to allow the opposing vehicle to turn, according to Police Chief Tom O’Loughlin."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161012/milford-crash-sends-rider-to-hospital
Saturday, July 30, 2016
In the News: DARE camp, crash victim ID'd, Historical Commissions to meet
"Children attending the Franklin DARE summer camp got an unexpected treat on Thursday - a visit from a Massachusetts State Police helicopter.
The helicopter arrived shortly after noon, touching down at Meadowlark Field as the campers eagerly waited. After the landing, state police troopers Ron Baker and Tim Foley spoke to the campers, answering questions they had about their unit."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160729/copter-crew-gives-franklin-camp-visit-whirl
"Police have identified the man killed in a Thursday morning crash on Rte. 495 as a 23-year-old Rhode Island resident.
Zachary R. Lemir, of Warwick, Rhode Island, died as the result of a single-vehicle crash at around 6 a.m. that day, according to the Massachusetts State Police. The incident occurred north of Exit 17 on Rte. 495 northbound.
According to police, Lemir's 1997 Ford F-150 pickup went off the highway and into the woods."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160729/driver-in-fatal-495-crash-in-franklin-identified
"The Franklin Historical Commission will host a reception for area historical commissions on Aug. 7.
Commission members from Wrentham, Norfolk, Medway, Bellingham, Millis, Foxborough, Plainville and Blackstone have been invited to participate in a meet and greet reception at the Franklin Historical Museum, 80 West Central St., Franklin."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160729/franklin-historical-commission-to-host-reception
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| Franklin Historical Museum |
Friday, May 20, 2016
In the News: 4th of July schedule, Franklin man run over in Easton
"The Franklin 4th of July Celebration will run from June 28 to July 4.
Some of the highlights this year will include a laser light show with 3-D glasses and sound at 10 p.m. July 2. Earlier that day, at noon, the usual Children's Parade will take place, and children's entertainment will follow at 1 p.m.
A Celebration Parade will begin at 2 p.m. July 3."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160519/franklin-4th-of-july-celebration-announced
| will the spinning apple ride return this year? We'll see! |
"A 44-year-old Franklin man was injured when he was struck by a car while working in a manhole on Foundry Street in Easton about 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.
Watch the report
At about 10:23 a.m., Suzanne Omansky, 72, called 911 to report she had run over Thomas Hannan as she pulled into her assigned parking spot in the Landsdowne Village apartment complex at 41 Foundry St. (Route 106), near Route 138."Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160519/franklin-man-run-over-on-easton-job-site
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
In the News: i495 accident, 2800 on bus this year
A crash between a car and a tractor-trailer on Interstate 495 sent the driver to the hospital via medical helicopter with life-threatening injuries Tuesday, state police officials say.
The crash, which occurred sometime after 11 a.m. just prior to exit 17, shut down all three southbound lanes of the highway, reducing traffic to just the breakdown lane for about two and a half hours.
The driver of a 2002 Toyota Echo, a 25-year-old from Brockton, was taken to a Rhode Island hospital via medical helicopter with life-threatening injuries and a 22-year-old passenger was taken by ambulance to UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, state police spokesman David Procopio said. The driver of the tractor-trailer was uninjured.Continue reading the article (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150825/NEWS/150827803/1994/NEWS
About 2,800 students will be taking the bus to school this year and nearly 70 percent of them will pay for the privilege, the School Committee was told Tuesday night.
Business Administrator Miriam Goodman said the district will be hauling approximately 2,800 students on 31 buses. A total of 51 students are on a waiting list.
"Twenty-one of them are at the high school level - the high school buses are pretty full," she said, noting that 19 buses travel to the high school. "We're trying to get everyone on as quickly as possible and meet everyone's needs."
Continue reading the article (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150825/NEWS/150827582/1994/NEWS
Saturday, April 12, 2014
BJ's Intersection
In my own use of the intersection, it seems much better behaved than the 'wild west' it used to be.
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| early warning stop sign ahead |
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| stop sign has blinking lights all around the edge |
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| the intersection is a wide one with good views |
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
In the News: ruled accidental, still in shock, invasive plants
The Norfolk District Attorney said that preliminary autopsy results show the deaths of two children trapped in a cedar chest were accidental.
The statement also confirms that the chest manufactured by the Lane Furniture Co. of Altavista, Va, on July 13, 1939 had been recalled because of an unsafe locking mechanism.
Read more: http://www.wickedlocal.com/franklin/newsnow/x1266956844/Fund-created-by-family-member-of-children-who-died-in-accident#ixzz2qSneXq16
Still in shock over the loss of her daughter’s best friend, Dawn Powers kept repeating how Lexi and Sean Munroe were the "best kids a parent could ask for."See more at: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140115/NEWS/140119342#sthash.jrJ0IckQ.dpuf
Botanists with the New England Wild Flower Society have not found any trace of two of the more troublesome invasive plant species thought to have been present at the new DelCarte recreation park.See more at: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140115/NEWS/140119339/1994/NEWS#sthash.902pTZmG.dpuf
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
In the News: motorcycle accident, rail trail
All three travel lanes on Interstate-495 south near Exit 26 are closed after a motorcycle accident, according to the Massachusetts State Police.
Work on the final one-mile section of the Upper Charles Rail Trail, to connect the existing five miles of trail in town, is progressing and should be completed within the next 18 months.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Life changing on Washington St
A pleasant scene. Could almost be anywhere.
Yet, it is here in Franklin along Washington St.
Running by this area on Sunday morning I was concerned to see a road side shrine and the familiar markings of an accident investigation. The flowers were fresh so it had to be recent. So recent that it hadn't made the newspapers yet. (Milford Daily News put a story online at 11:30 AM, and updated the details around 7:30 PM Sunday)
The Franklin Police logs did record the accident as multiple vehicles (2 were towed away) with a fatality involved. Saturday morning at 11:17 AM there were multiple 911 calls to report the accident.
There is a story or two inside the police report yet to be known. One or more families lives were changed suddenly on Saturday morning with the death and the aftermath....
The Milford Daily News article can be found here
http://www.milforddailynews.com/newsnow/x764816177/Person-killed-in-Franklin-crash
A form of this was originally published on Steve's 2 Cents
http://steves2cents.blogspot.com/2012/09/life-changing-on-washington-st.html
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
In the News - Tri-County, accident
Two charged in Tri-County fight
by By Brian Benson, DAILY NEWS STAFF
Franklin accident sends two to the hospital
Franklin, MA
Sunday, February 6, 2011
In the New - rollover
Three taken to hospital after rollover on I-495 near Franklin
Franklin, MA
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
In the News - bullying policy, accident
Vote expected on Franklin school bullying policy
Franklin accident sends man to the hospital
Franklin, MA











