A Thanksgiving dinner row turned fatal in Marshfield, Massachusetts, when a 65-year-old man allegedly was accused of killing his 80-year-old roommate amid a row over food preparations. Robert Lombardi has been charged with involuntary manslaughter regarding the death of Frank Griswold, pushed by Lombardi after an argument over meal preparations.
The fatal accident occurred during Thanksgiving preparation by Lombardi. Lombardi accused his roommate, Griswold, of sneezing beside the food prepared for their Thanksgiving meal. He allegedly called police and expressed that sneezing continuously would contaminated the meal for Griswold. Lombardi walked towards Griswold, who was doing his dishes near the food area, and pushed Griswold, with Griswold falling, hitting the back of the head into the kitchen floor.
After some minutes, police arrived at the scene and found Griswold unconscious on the floor. There were visible head injuries with a forehead wound that was oozing blood. Subsequent medical examination revealed neck fracture. Griswold was rushed to the nearby hospital but died shortly thereafter.
Lombardi, in a state of panic, called 911 and reported that his roommate was unconscious. The authorities arrived at the house quickly and started their investigation. Lombardi later admitted to pushing Griswold but said it was not intentional. He was arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter and assault and battery on a person over 60. Lombardi entered a not-guilty plea to the charges.
Lombardi and Griswold had been roommates for more than 20 years. They rented their Marshfield home since 2008. Despite their long history of cohabiting, the fatal altercation occurred during what was supposed to be a joyful holiday meal.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Griswold’s death. The cause and manner of death remain under investigation, and further details about the argument leading to the fatal push are expected to emerge as the case develops.
