Fatal Head-On Crash on Route 6 in Harwich Claims Life of Mario Paixao
On April 3, 2025, at approximately 5:26 p.m., a devastating head-on collision occurred on Route 6 at mile marker 84.2 in Harwich, Massachusetts, resulting in the death of 48-year-old Mario Da Paixao Andrade of Hyannis, Massachusetts. The incident involved a Toyota Tacoma pickup, driven by 49-year-old Zachary Fena of Centerville, Massachusetts, and a Ford Transit van operated by Paixao. According to the Massachusetts State Police, Fena’s vehicle crossed the median from the eastbound lane into the westbound lane, striking Paixao’s van head-on. Witnesses reported observing Fena’s vehicle swerving and changing speed erratically prior to the crash. Paixao was pronounced dead at the scene by the Harwich Fire Department, while Fena was transported to Cape Cod Hospital for evaluation and subsequently arrested on suspicion of operating under the influence of alcohol.
The Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office has charged Fena with manslaughter while operating under the influence (OUI), motor vehicle homicide OUI-Liquor or .08% negligent, OUI, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and a marked lanes violation. Fena was arraigned in Orleans District Court, where the Commonwealth requested $10,000 bail, and the court set bail at $5,000 with conditions. A probable cause hearing is scheduled for May 5, 2025. The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the State Police Detective Unit, with support from multiple agencies, including the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section. District Attorney Robert J. Galibois expressed condolences to Paixao’s family and underscored that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
