Worcester, MA – “Let me get out,” a Worcester police officer pleaded as a car sped through traffic on Main Street, with a passenger reaching for his gun and pepper spray during a violent struggle inside the moving vehicle on Jan. 16, 2026.

Police Chief Paul Saucier called it “a very, very life-threatening situation,” while court records warned that “if successful, these actions could have caused death to Officer Maracallo.”

The incident began when John Slater stood in the middle of Main Street “yelling, screaming and causing motorists to slow down,” according to court documents. When Officer Alexander Maracallo approached the vehicle, driver Sarah McMahon said she was waiting for Slater and denied drug use.

“Do you think I was born yesterday?” the officer asked, pointing to tin foil and open bags.

Slater approached, gave a false name and entered the car, claiming he was retrieving identification. “What are you doing?” Maracallo asked as events spiraled.

“Go, go, go,” a man shouted. The car accelerated, striking another officer outside, police said. “Stop the (expletive) car,” Maracallo yelled, warning, “you’re going to get shot.”

As the struggle intensified, McMahon screamed, “Don’t hurt him.” Maracallo punched Slater, causing him to bleed, and choked him while fighting to stop the vehicle.

After the car halted, Slater was pulled out and handcuffed. “Get off of me,” he said. McMahon continued yelling, “Get off of him.”

Breathing heavily, Maracallo later said, “I lost my shoe.” He reported injuries to his hand and foot. He, Slater, McMahon and the officer struck by the car were taken to the hospital.

Slater, whose record spans 10 years and multiple Massachusetts towns, was charged with assault to murder, kidnapping, attempt to disarm a police officer, assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest and drug possession. On Feb. 2, he was again deemed dangerous and remains held until at least May 15.

McMahon faces charges including assault to murder, kidnapping and drug offenses.

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