A Massachusetts man, Richard Lombardi, 65, has been charged with assault and battery on a person 60 and over, causing serious injury, and involuntary manslaughter after allegedly killing his 80-year-old roommate, Frank Griswold, on Thanksgiving in Marshfield.
The incident occurred when Lombardi became upset that Griswold was standing too close to the food he was preparing for Thanksgiving dinner. Lombardi claimed that he did not want Griswold, who he said often sneezes, to contaminate the food near the sink.
According to court records, Lombardi confronted Griswold in the kitchen and asked him to stay away from the food. When he saw Griswold near the food again, Lombardi grabbed him from behind and threw him to the ground, causing Griswold to hit his head and break his neck and nose.
Lombardi called 911 after realizing Griswold was unconscious and bleeding from his head. Griswold was pronounced dead at South Shore Hospital later that night.
Plymouth County Assistant District Attorney Joseph Presley stated that Lombardi intentionally threw Griswold to the side after seeing him near the food. Lombardi's attorney, Marshall Johnson, argued that the incident was an accident based on the evidence presented in court.
Johnson mentioned that Lombardi and Griswold had been friends for over 30 years and roommates for more than 20 years. Lombardi is currently being held without bail and is scheduled to appear in court on December 4.
This tragic event has shocked the community, highlighting the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and seeking help when emotions escalate to prevent such devastating outcomes.
