New Bedford Man Receives Suspended Sentence for Motorcycle Homicide
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — William Botelho Jr., 30, was sentenced to a two-year suspended sentence after being convicted of motor vehicle homicide while operating under the influence during a motorcycle crash on June 6, 2021.
The crash occurred around 7 p.m. on Acushnet Avenue near Conduit Street. Authorities stated Botelho was traveling northbound when he lost control of his motorcycle, striking a guardrail. Reports indicate he was speeding and had been drinking prior to the incident.
Both Botelho and his passenger, 24-year-old Krystal Geraldo of North Scituate, Rhode Island, suffered serious injuries and were hospitalized. Geraldo succumbed to her injuries two days later, on June 8.
The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the conviction in New Bedford District Court on Tuesday. No additional jail time was imposed.
An investigation into the crash is ongoing. Towing services were dispatched to the scene, and Acushnet Avenue experienced temporary lane closures as emergency responders assisted.
Authorities continue to review details surrounding the case.