TAUNTON, MA — A 22-year-old Massachusetts man accused in a deadly motorcycle crash in Raynham appeared before a judge Monday as prosecutors laid out motor vehicle homicide and negligence charges. A not guilty plea was entered on Jacob Larsen’s behalf in Taunton District Court.
Authorities said the crash happened Friday night at the busy intersection of South Street East and Hill Street, where 52-year-old Scott Piche was riding a motorcycle when he was struck and killed.
What did prosecutors say happened at the intersection?
An assistant district attorney told the court that Larsen crossed into the opposite lane of travel and hit Piche directly in front of his Ford Explorer. Prosecutors also said Larsen was seen after the crash asking, “did I kill him.”
Investigators said NBC 10 News crews captured Larsen on camera at the scene shortly after the collision. Court records and the hearing account tied the case to the fatal impact on South Street East.
How did the victim's family and neighbors respond?
A memorial has been placed where Piche died, and the courtroom was filled with his loved ones during Monday’s hearing. The scene reflected the large circle of support surrounding him, even as the case moved into court.
One longtime resident, Marcia Erickson, said the crash was unsettling and made her think about how quickly such events can happen. She said she heard about it but did not go over to the scene.
Why is Larsen's driving history part of the case?
Investigators said Larsen’s driver’s license is suspended while he faces a separate operating under the influence case from January. In that earlier case, they said he failed field sobriety testing and blew a .12 on a portable breathalyzer.
The prior allegation is now part of the background in a case that has already drawn attention because of the fatal outcome and the location’s heavy traffic.
What happens before Larsen returns to court?
Bail was set at $25,000 with surety, meaning Larsen would need to post $2,500 to be released. He is scheduled to return to court next month as the fatal crash case continues through Taunton District Court.
For neighbors, the incident has become another reminder to slow down and stay alert on local roads. The court date ahead will determine the next steps in the prosecution.
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