Interchange dedication honors trooper injured by drunk driver

Over 200 people, including numerous state officials, joined the Massachusetts State Police June 23 at a ceremony dedicating the Exit 7 Interchange off Route 6 in Yarmouth in honor of Tpr. Ellen E. Engelhardt, who was severely injured in the line of duty on July 26, 2003, when she was struck by a drunk driver.

Residents knew the trooper from seeing her directing traffic for several years at the intersection now named in her honor.

Among the speakers at the dedication ceremony were senate president Therese Murray and state representative Cleon Turner of Dennis, who filed the legislation to name the interchange in Engelhardt’s honor.

Tpr. Ellen Engelhardt, 1988

“Today we dedicate this intersection, to honor Tpr. Ellen Engelhardt and remind our citizens of her service and sacrifice on behalf of the commonwealth,” then-superintendent Col. Mark F. Delaney said. “Tpr. Engelhardt defined the role of a Massachusetts state trooper, and exemplified the very best in our traditions and values.”

William P. Senne, 18 at the time of the crash, pled guilty to charges of driving under the influence and slamming into Engelhardt's parked cruiser at nearly 100 mph. Senne was sentenced to 2½ years in the Plymouth County House of Correction, as well as five years probation and 500 hours of community service at a head trauma hospital. He was also ordered to abstain from alcohol.

Engelhardt, who currently resides in a specialized care facility, suffered serious brain injuries and is unable to communicate or care for herself.

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