The quiet town of Rumford, Maine, is grappling with the aftermath of an unimaginable tragedy after Matthew R. Kellogg, 43, of Hopedale, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for a drunk-driving crash that claimed the life of his 9-year-old son, left his 6-year-old son with critical injuries, and severely harmed another motorist. The devastating collision occurred on March 9, 2024, on Route 2 in Rumford, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit Oxford County community. On June 23, 2025, Kellogg appeared in Oxford County Superior Court, where he pleaded guilty to manslaughter, aggravated assault, and operating under the influence (OUI), bringing a painful legal resolution to a case that has left permanent scars on multiple families.
A Catastrophic Crash That Changed Lives Forever
The afternoon of March 9, 2024, began like any other in Rumford—until emergency dispatchers received frantic calls reporting a head-on collision on Route 2 near 1125 U.S. Highway. First responders arrived to find a scene of sheer devastation: Kellogg’s 2016 Subaru Impreza had been traveling the wrong way in the westbound lane when it slammed into a Volvo sedan driven by F. Michael Piveronas, a Rumford resident. The impact was catastrophic.
Inside Kellogg’s vehicle were his two young sons, ages 9 and 6. Despite the heroic efforts of an off-duty nurse and a Game Warden who rushed to assist, the 9-year-old boy succumbed to his injuries at Rumford Hospital. His younger brother survived but sustained life-altering injuries requiring extensive medical treatment. Piveronas, the other driver, also suffered severe trauma, leaving him with long-term physical and emotional wounds.
A Father’s Reckless Decision Leads to Unthinkable Loss
In the days following the crash, rumors circulated online, with some attempting to justify or downplay Kellogg’s actions. But as investigators pieced together the evidence, the truth became undeniable. Toxicology reports revealed Kellogg’s blood alcohol content (BAC) was significantly above the legal limit. Open alcohol containers were found in his vehicle. Crash reconstruction experts confirmed no mechanical failures in either car—this was not an accident caused by bad luck or a vehicle malfunction. It was the direct result of Kellogg’s decision to drive while intoxicated with his children in the car.
“This was not a mistake—it was a crime,” said Assistant District Attorney Patricia Mador during the sentencing hearing. “A child is dead because of choices made that day. Another child and an innocent man will carry the scars of this for the rest of their lives.”
Justice Served, But No True Closure
Kellogg’s sentencing brought a measure of legal resolution, but no amount of prison time can undo the damage. The court handed down a 15-year sentence, with all but 5 years suspended, followed by 4 years of probation. As part of his probation terms, Kellogg is banned from consuming alcohol, must undergo substance abuse treatment, and is prohibited from contacting Piveronas.
For the families affected, the pain remains raw. The loss of a child is an unbearable burden, and the surviving 6-year-old must now grow up without his brother. Piveronas, an innocent man caught in the path of Kellogg’s reckless actions, faces a long road to recovery—both physically and emotionally.
A Community United in Grief and Resolve
The tragedy has left an indelible mark on Rumford, a town where such horrific events are rare. Rumford Police Chief Tony Milligan spoke somberly after the sentencing, emphasizing the preventable nature of the crash.
“There are no winners here—only broken lives,” Chief Milligan said. “This should serve as a stark reminder to everyone: driving under the influence isn’t just a risk—it’s a potential death sentence for yourself and others.”
In the wake of the crash, local law enforcement has doubled down on efforts to combat drunk driving, partnering with the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety to increase patrols during high-risk periods like holidays and weekends. Community leaders hope that by sharing this story, they can prevent future tragedies.
Honoring a Life Cut Short
Amid the legal proceedings and public warnings, the heart of this case remains the 9-year-old boy whose life was stolen too soon. His name, though not released publicly out of respect for the family, represents innocence lost—a bright future erased in an instant.
Memorials have sprung up along Route 2, where flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes pay tribute to the young victim. A local church held a vigil in his honor, drawing hundreds of mourners who came together to grieve and support the family.
A Call to Action: Never Drive Impaired
As Rumford continues to heal, the case has ignited urgent conversations about accountability, responsibility, and the irreversible consequences of impaired driving. Law enforcement officials urge anyone who plans to drink to arrange for a designated driver, use rideshare services, or simply stay where they are.
“If this tragedy can save even one life by making someone think twice before getting behind the wheel drunk, then perhaps some good can come from this nightmare,” Chief Milligan said.
Moving Forward, But Never Forgetting
The legal chapter of this case may be closed, but the emotional wounds will take far longer to heal—if they ever do. For Kellogg, prison time awaits. For the survivors, rehabilitation and grief remain daily struggles. And for the community, the memory of that fateful day on Route 2 will linger as a somber reminder of how quickly lives can change.
One thing is certain: the legacy of the young boy lost in this crash will not be forgotten. His story has become a rallying cry for safer roads, responsible choices, and the preciousness of every life.
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