The Apple store located in the Derby Street Shops of Hingham, Massachusetts, has officially reopened its doors to the public. This reopening comes nearly two months after a vehicle collision caused significant damage and tragically resulted in one fatality and numerous injuries. The store resumed operations on Wednesday, marking its first day of business since the unsettling incident on November 21st. On that day, Kevin Bradley, 65, from New Jersey, lost his life, and twenty other individuals sustained injuries when a vehicle crashed through the storefront.
In response to the accident and to enhance safety measures, a visible line of approximately two dozen steel barriers has been installed in front of the Apple store. These barriers are intended to protect the storefront and pedestrian area from any similar future incidents.
The November incident involved Bradley Rein, 53, of Hingham, who was driving a Toyota 4Runner when it crashed into the Apple store. According to police reports, Bradley was outside the store, moving barriers with a colleague as part of his work for GMS Construction, when he was struck by Rein’s vehicle just before it collided with the building.
Following the incident, Rein was arrested and arraigned in Hingham District Court on November 22nd. He faces serious charges including motor vehicle homicide by reckless driving and reckless driving. Bail was set at $100,000, and restrictions were imposed preventing him from driving and requiring court approval to leave Massachusetts while awaiting further court proceedings. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 9th.
During the police investigation, Rein reportedly stated that his foot became trapped on the accelerator pedal, causing the vehicle to accelerate unexpectedly. He also informed the authorities that he had no pre-existing medical conditions that could have impaired his driving ability and that he regularly maintained his vehicle. A blood alcohol test administered to Rein returned negative results.
The reopening of the Apple store at Derby Street in Hingham signifies a step towards recovery for the community and the shopping center after the traumatic event. The presence of the newly installed steel barriers serves as a constant reminder of the incident while also providing a sense of increased security for shoppers and staff at the Apple store and the wider Derby Street Shops.
