In a devastating incident on Wednesday night, a National Grid worker and a police officer lost their lives in a violent crash in Waltham, Massachusetts. The family of Roderick Jackson, 39, a gas operations technician, and Waltham Police Officer Paul Tracey, 58, are grappling with the unimaginable loss of their loved ones.

The fatal accident occurred around 4 p.m. on Totten Pond Road when a pickup truck driven by Peter Simon, 54, crashed into the worksite, striking Jackson, Tracey, and two other National Grid workers. The impact resulted in fatal injuries for Jackson and Tracey, while the two injured workers were treated and released from the hospital. Fortunately, another worker escaped unharmed.

The family of Roderick Jackson expressed their grief and devastation outside the courthouse. Jackson's mother, Norma Asprilla, mournfully stated, "They took something treasured from us. Can never replace it... Unforgivable." Jackson's brother, Manual Asprilla-Hassan, described the loss as a "nightmare," emphasizing his brother's irreplaceable role as the heart of their family.

National Grid, Jackson's employer, paid tribute to him as a highly-respected and selfless teammate. Jackson had joined the company in 2021 and had quickly built strong friendships with his colleagues by taking on extra duties and always offering a helping hand. National Grid expressed deep sorrow for his loss and declared that he will be greatly missed.

Dozens of Jackson's coworkers and friends gathered at the Waltham courthouse to show their support for the grieving family. Joe Garcia, a friend of Jackson, fondly remembered him as "a really good man with ambition... a really good man and friend." Jackson's academic and athletic achievements were also highlighted, as he had attended Cambridge Rindge And Latin School before graduating from Framingham State University in 2011 with a degree in business administration. He had excelled as a student athlete at the university, playing basketball and football.

Roderick Jackson was not only revered as a worker but also as a member of the United Steelworkers Union, which issued a statement expressing their mourning for their brother's passing. The union also extended their condolences to the family of Officer Paul Tracey, who tragically lost his life in the same accident.

Peter Simon, the driver responsible for the crash, was arraigned in Waltham District Court on multiple charges, including manslaughter, armed robbery, and negligent operation of a motor vehicle. He was also charged with leaving the scene of an accident after causing personal injury and death. Simon is currently being held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing.

As the community mourns the loss of two valuable lives, the impact of this tragic accident is deeply felt. The memory of Roderick Jackson, a selfless worker and beloved family member, will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him. Similarly, the service and sacrifice of Officer Paul Tracey will be remembered by the Waltham Police Department and the community he served.