A BMW SUV driven by a Shrewsbury man crashed through the front of the town’s police headquarters Monday afternoon, passing through the lobby and into the department’s communications center in what investigators now describe as an apparent intentional act.
The crash occurred at approximately 2:02 p.m. on January 19, when a black 2022 BMW SUV entered the station at a high rate of speed. The vehicle went through two sets of double front doors, crossed the lobby, and broke through an interior wall before coming to rest with its front end inside the dispatch center. Three dispatchers were inside the building at the time, but no officers, staff, or members of the public were injured.
The driver and sole occupant was identified as Robert McCluskey, 58, of Shrewsbury. Both on-duty and off-duty officers who were present immediately responded and rendered medical aid. McCluskey was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries and later placed under arrest.
Court documents and witness statements previously released indicate McCluskey had made comments earlier in the day suggesting the crash was deliberate, including telling others to “watch the news” and expressing a desire for “suicide by cop.” After the crash, McCluskey allegedly told officers, “Yes, I am sorry, I am sorry,” and police reported detecting the smell of alcohol on his breath.
Based on the department’s preliminary investigation, police say the incident appears to have been intentional. Investigators continue to review surveillance video and are analyzing the vehicle’s speed at the time of impact.
McCluskey is expected to be arraigned Wednesday, January 21, in Westborough District Court. He faces charges including reckless operation of a motor vehicle, malicious destruction of property over $1,200, three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
The front lobby of Shrewsbury Police Headquarters remains closed due to damage from the crash. Police said the department remains fully operational, with residents encouraged to use the business line at 508-845-1212 for non-emergency matters and to dial 911 in emergencies.
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