UPDATE: A tragic snowmobile crash in Washburn, Maine has left a 17-year-old girl dead and a boy seriously injured. The incident occurred just after 1 p.m. on January 27, 2024, as the teens were riding together when they lost control of the vehicle.
According to the Maine Warden Service, the snowmobile, driven by a 17-year-old boy, was traveling at a high rate of speed when it failed to navigate a sharp 90-degree turn on Story Street. The snowmobile struck a curb, flipped over, and ejected both passengers before crashing into the side of a nearby house. Authorities confirmed the girl was pronounced dead at the scene.
The boy sustained multiple injuries and was rushed to Cary Medical Center in Caribou before being transferred to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor for further treatment. Both teenagers were wearing helmets at the time of the accident.
The Maine Warden Service is withholding the names of the victims as the investigation into the crash continues. Local emergency services, including Presque Isle EMS, Presque Isle Fire and Rescue, and the Presque Isle Police Department, responded to the scene to assist.
This devastating incident raises urgent questions about safety on snowmobiles, particularly among young riders. The community is mourning the loss of a young life while the boy’s condition remains critical, leaving many to hope for his recovery.
As details emerge, officials emphasize the importance of safe riding practices, especially during the winter months when snowmobiles are frequently used. The Maine Warden Service will continue to provide updates as the investigation unfolds, urging the public to remain cautious on the roads and trails.
Stay tuned for more developments on this heartbreaking story.
