Feds: Driver that killed seven bikers was high, reaching for drink as crash occurred

A makeshift shrine serves as a solemn memorial to the seven killed; inset, Aaron Perry and girlfriend Desma Oakes, who both perished in the crash. (Courtesy photos)

The driver of the pickup and car hauler that slammed into a group of motorcyclists, killing seven including a Farmington man, was high on drugs and reaching for a beverage when the crash occurred, according to a federal safety review report.

The report from the Motor Carrier Safety Administration said that Volodymyr Zhukovskyy tested positive for an unspecified drug that made him unable to drive safely when his pickup truck and trailer swerved into the opposing lane and crashed into the bikers, all members of the Jarheads Motorcycle Club, a group that includes Marines and their spouses or girlfriends.

Volodymyr Zhukovskyy

The report also stated Zhukovskyy, 23, of West Springfield, Mass., said he was reaching for a drink just before crossing the yellow line that separated the opposing lanes of traffic. The report does not reveal what the beverage was.

Zhukovskyy worked for Westfield Transport Inc., which has faced more than 60 operating violations in the past two years.

Zhukovskyy has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of negligent homicide.

Aaron Perry, 45, of Farmington, was among those who died when the group collided with Zhukovskyy's pickup truck on Route 2 in Randolph around 6:30 p.m. on June 21.

The group of bikers were en route to a local American Legion post for a charity event and meat bingo when the accident occurred.

The other victims were identified as Michael Ferazzi, 62, of Contoocook, Albert Mazza, 59, of Lee, Daniel Pereira, 58, of Riverside, R.I., Joanne and Edward Corr, both 58, of Lakeville, Mass and Desma Oakes, 42, of Concord, who was Perry's girlfriend.