Law firm clarifies circumstances of Florence teen’s death

Published: 03-29-2023 7:43 PM

NORTHAMPTON — The law firm representing the family of a Florence teenager who died late Friday night in Hatfield has sought to clarify the circumstances of his death, shedding some more light on details of the case.

Jesse Johansmeyer, 19, of Burts Pit Road, was killed in an apparent hit-and-run at a bonfire party in a section of Hatfield meadows off Great Neponset Road and South Street. Johansmeyer was hit by what the Northwestern district attorney’s office described as a white pickup truck that then left the scene.

The incident remains under investigation by the DA’s office, as well as Hatfield and Massachusetts State Police.

Tom Lesser, a lawyer representing Johansmeyer’s family, initially described Johansmeyer as having been “left to die” in a statement on Monday. But on Wednesday, the law firm of Lesser, Newman, Aleo & Nasser said there were a few teenagers who stayed with Johansmeyer and attempted to revive him.

“Based on new information it appears that Jesse Johansmeyer was struck by a truck, but the driver of the truck left the scene,” Michael Aleo, another attorney for the firm, said in a statement to the Gazette. “Other individuals, however, stayed at the scene. They observed Jesse, called 911, and, while they were waiting for the first responders to arrive, they tried to assist him. We appreciate those who have come forward with additional information, and we particularly appreciate the individuals who remained at the scene trying to help Jesse.”

Johansmeyer was eventually transported to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, where he died from the injuries he suffered from the accident.

Two memorial services in honor of Johansmeyer, a recent graduate of Northampton High School, are planned in the ccoming days.

The first is a candlelight vigil expected to be held Friday at Childs Park in Northampton at 8:30 p.m., across from Northampton High School. Those looking to attend should park in the high school parking lot before making their way to the vigil.

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