Home / Crime and Justice / Man Charged with Murder After Fatally Striking Boston Donor
Man Charged with Murder After Fatally Striking Boston Donor
5 Jan
Summary
- John Axelrod, a major MFA donor, was killed in a hit-and-run.
- William Haney faces murder charges for allegedly hitting Axelrod.
- Axelrod and his dog died after being intentionally struck by a car.
Seventy-nine-year-old John Axelrod, a significant donor to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), was fatally struck in a hit-and-run on January 3, 2026, in downtown Boston. William Haney, 42, has been arrested and charged with murder and cruelty to animals in connection with the incident.
According to the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, Haney intentionally drove his car into Axelrod and his dog as they walked on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall in Back Bay, resulting in their deaths. Police responded to the crash shortly after 8 a.m. and found Axelrod deceased after being taken to a hospital.
Haney fled the scene but was later identified, and the vehicle involved was recovered. Authorities are investigating a motive for the killing and are expected to provide more details during Haney's arraignment on January 6, 2026, in Boston Municipal Court. Axelrod was a dedicated supporter of the MFA for over four decades.
