For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018

Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Rockingham County Attorney Announces Sentencing in Case of Off-Duty Somerville Police Officer’s Death

BRENTWOOD — Rockingham County Attorney Patricia G. Conway announces that MICHAEL RICCI was sentenced in Rockingham Superior Court Monday after previously pleading guilty to killing an off-duty Somerville, Massachusetts police officer in a crash last year.

RICCI, AGE 19, OF BURLINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS was sentenced on the following charges:

• Negligent Homicide
• Second Degree Assault (two counts)
• Reckless Conduct

Judge N. William Delker sentenced RICCI to seven to 14 years.

On Oct. 8, 2017, around 9:30 a.m., RICCI was part of a caravan traveling from Massachusetts to New Hampshire on Interstate 95. Witnesses reported that RICCI was traveling about 100 mph and weaving in and out of traffic.

When he lost sight of his group and missed an exit, RICCI, instead of continuing to the next exit, attempted to make a u-turn in the restricted crossover section of the highway to reverse his direction.

The maneuver, which he made while traveling at 50 mph, caused RICCI’S vehicle to slide into oncoming traffic. Off-duty Somerville Police Officer Louis Remigio was traveling southbound on his motorcycle when he clipped RICCI’S vehicle and was thrown from his bike. He later succumbed to his injuries.

Three other vehicles were also involved in the crash, with one person suffering serious injuries.

“This was a tragic case that left a family without a father and a police department without one of its respected members,” County Attorney Conway said. “Thank you to the New Hampshire State Police for their assistance investigating this case. We’re pleased that Judge Delker accepted the state’s recommendation for sentencing, and hope this resolution will help provide some closure for Officer Remigio’s loved ones.”

Deputy County Attorney Jennifer Haggar and Lead Assistant County Attorney Douglas Sheehan prosecuted the case. RICCI was represented by Eric Wilson and Chuck Keefe.

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