New charges mulled after 2nd death tied to August crash, fire

Authorities are exploring upgraded charges following the death of a second person injured in an August fire in town.

Deputy Police Chief Daniel Parrillo on Wednesday said Dolores Pagano has died as a result of injuries sustained in the blaze on Angelico Drive. Patricia Manney Jones, who was severely burned in the fire, died earlier this month.

According to police, the fire was caused when John Palermo, 64, drove his motorcycle into the driveway where a pig roast was taking place on Aug. 19. He is said to have crashed into a grill, resulting in a propane spill and subsequent explosion.

Palermo has been charged with two felony counts of driving to endanger resulting in personal injury, as well as with misdemeanor counts of reckless driving and driving to endanger.

Parrillo said Johnston police are working with the office of Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin and the state medical examiner to determine whether more serious charges against Palermo will be filed.

“It’s being looked into,” he said.

Palermo