Former lawmaker struck and killed

ATTLEBORO, Mass. (AP) – Police are investigating the death of a former Rhode Island legislator who was struck and killed by a vehicle in Attleboro on Friday.

Mabel Anderson, 79, of Pawtucket, R.I., was struck in the parking lot of a shopping center on Route 1A early in the afternoon, police said. She was taken to Rhode Island Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Anderson, a Democrat, represented Pawtucket for 20 years until stepping down last year.

U.S. Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., who served with Anderson in the Rhode Island General Assembly, said the state “has lost a good friend and an exceptional public servant.”

“I was always impressed by her constant dedication to her constituents,” he said. “In my early days as a representative, I learned how important it is to listen closely to your constituents and represent their views to the best of your ability among your colleagues.”

Police identified the driver of the vehicle as Russell H. Theileg of Pawtucket R.I.

No charges have been filed and the investigation is continuing.