Arrest Made in Commonwealth Avenue Fatal Hit-and-Run, Suspect Charged with Murder
A shocking crime in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood over the weekend has resulted in a murder charge, with authorities alleging the deadly hit-and-run on Saturday morning was intentional. The victim, who was tragically killed while walking his dog, has been identified as 79-year-old John Axelrod, a beloved figure in the city’s arts community.
The incident, which took place around 8 a.m. on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall near Hereford Street, sent shockwaves through the typically tranquil neighborhood. Mr. Axelrod was reportedly walking on the tree-lined pedestrian mall when he and his dog were struck by a vehicle. Both he and his dog were rushed to a local hospital, where they were unfortunately pronounced dead.
The gravity of the situation escalated quickly when the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office stated that the driver, 42-year-old William Haney of Boston, intentionally hit Mr. Axelrod. This assertion transforms a horrific traffic accident into an alleged act of deliberate violence, leading to the severe charges now faced by the suspect.
Police launched an immediate investigation following the crash, as the driver fled the scene. Officers were able to obtain the vehicle’s registration information and an alert was broadcast to surrounding departments. The suspect vehicle was later found unoccupied in nearby Brookline. Following the investigation, William Haney was placed under arrest and has been charged with both Murder and Cruelty to Animals.
Mr. Axelrod was a well-known and respected member of the Boston community, particularly within the Museum of Fine Arts. He served as an honorary advisor and was described by the museum as a generous supporter and passionate advocate for underrepresented artists. His legacy at the MFA includes the John Axelrod Collection, a transformative acquisition of nearly 70 works by Black artists, and the John Axelrod Gallery, which features American Modern design and was named in his honor.
The loss of such a prominent and impactful community figure has prompted an outpouring of grief. The Museum of Fine Arts released a statement following the news of his death, highlighting that John had been a part of the “MFA family since the 1980s” and that his legacy will live on through his incredible contributions to the institution.
William Haney is scheduled to be arraigned today, Monday, in Boston Municipal Court on the charges of Murder and Cruelty to Animals. This story is still developing, and the court proceedings today will be the next major step in a case that has left a profound impact on Boston’s Back Bay and its arts community. We will continue to follow the legal process as more details are released.