Berkshire Access Realty Merges with Bishop West Real Estate

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Access Realty has merged with Bishop West Real Estate, a move that is expected to expand Bishop West Real Estate's operations across Massachusetts, New York, and Vermont.

Berkshire Access Realty, founded and led by Mary Jane Dunlop, has served clients in the Berkshires for over two decades.

"We're thrilled to welcome Berkshire Access Realty into the Bishop West family," said Peter West, co-owner and broker of Bishop West Real Estate. "Mary Jane and her team bring a wealth of experience and an impeccable reputation. Together, we'll continue to raise the bar for client service in the Berkshires and beyond."

Corey Bishop, co-owner and broker, added: "This partnership is built on shared values—personalized service, local expertise, and a dedication to community. With this expansion, we're even better positioned to serve buyers and sellers across the region."

Mary Jane Dunlop, former broker-owner of Berkshire Access Realty, expressed her enthusiasm for the transition. "Joining Bishop West Real Estate is an exciting new chapter. I've always admired their professionalism and forward-thinking approach. This move allows me to continue doing what I love—serving my clients—with the backing of a dynamic, growth-oriented team."

With the merger, Bishop West Real Estate strengthens its position as a leading independent brokerage across the Northeast, offering residential, commercial, and investment real estate services with offices strategically located in Massachusetts, New York, and Vermont.

Suspect Arraigned in 'Horrific' Dragging Case

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
12:56PM / Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Complete write-thru 3 p.m., Feb. 18.

District Attorney TimothyShugrue says the community has been 'really upset' by this case. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A Hancock man has been charged in last week's gruesome dragging that killed 69-year-old William Colbert. 

 

William Gross, 65, was arraigned in Central Berkshire District Court on Wednesday for negligent motor vehicle homicide and leaving the scene. He was arrested Monday after police investigators narrowed down the type of car seen on video at the accident scene. 

 

Police say Colbert had fallen in the road at the Francis Avenue and Linden Street intersection on Feb. 10 before he was struck and dragged nearly four miles. His body was found on West Housatonic Street.

 

Gross is being held on $250,000 cash bail in the Berkshire County House of Corrections. District Attorney Timothy Shugrue said the case will go to a grand jury and foresees additional charges being placed. 

 

"I think this community was really upset by this case," Shugrue said while being interviewed by the press after the morning arraignment.  

 

"It's a horrific case, and the fact that someone was fleeing, and there was someone that was stuck there that could have been treated, and potentially in the initial stages, could have been potentially saved." 

 

Colbert was coming from a house on Francis Avenue about 11:30 on Feb. 10 when fell in the road and had trouble getting up, according to Shugrue.