‘Work to correct my mistakes’: Boston City Councilor Kendra Lara apologizes over crash at JP home

BOSTON — Boston City Councilor Kendra Lara has issued a statement addressing her car crash into a home in Jamaica Plain over a week after it happened.

According to a statement released by her office, Councilor Kendra Lara, who represents Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury, and her 7-year-old son Zaire were in a car accident near the Monument in Jamaica Plain.

“On June 30th, Zaire and I were involved in a car accident on Centre Street in Jamaica Plain while driving a friend’s car. I am grateful for my family, friends, and neighbors who have been by our side and provided the support Zaire and I needed to focus on our recovery,” Lara said in the statement.

“We are all accountable for our actions, and I am no different, which is why I offer my sincerest apologies to everyone, especially the people of District 6. As an elected official, I’ve worked hard to center the dignity and humanity of my constituents. Today, I ask you to also see mine as I work to correct my mistake.

According to the police report obtained by Boston 25, officers responded to a motor vehicle accident with injuries at 803 Centre Street Friday afternoon. Upon arrival, officers observed the vehicle inside the home’s left side.

Boston Police redacted Lara’s name and other details in the report provided to Boston 25. 25 Investigates viewed an unredacted draft version provided by a source.

Lara’s vehicle went through the metal fence outside the home, then crashed into and drove over the bushes before colliding with the left side of the house, causing significant damage to the home, police noted.

Lara had her son in the backseat of the vehicle but not in a booster or car seat according to an officer. According to Boston police, “All children riding in passenger motor vehicles must be in a federally approved child passenger restraint that is properly fastened and secured until they are 8 years of age or over 57 inches tall. Children older than 8 years of age or taller than 57 inches must wear seat belts.” Lara stated she and her son were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Lara’s son suffered injuries including bruising around the left eye and a deep laceration on the left eyebrow. Both Lara and her son were treated at Children’s Hospital.

DCF was contacted as a result of the child not being in the car seat.

The report said Lara was also driving with a revoked license and the vehicle she was driving was found to be unregistered with no insurance and had an expired inspection sticker.

“As your City Councilor, I will continue to steward our collective vision at City Hall and work hard to earn and maintain your trust. The grace you’ve shown me is a testament to the strength of our beloved community, and I intend to continue earning it. Thank you,” Lara concluded.

Lara is due in West Roxbury District Court on July 19 and is being charged with the operation of a motor vehicle after suspension, operation of an unregistered motor vehicle, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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