Bangor, Maine News Update: September 21, 2021

Officials have finally identified a set of remains that were found by a hunter in Stacyville nearly 11 years ago. DNA confirmed the remains are Christopher Roof of Massachusetts, who was last seen in 2010. Police say the man’s family never reported him missing, thinking he wanted to remain estranged, but a friend suggested it might be Roof. 

Sabattus Police have released the identity of a 28-year-old pedestrian who was struck and killed Sunday afternoon on Bowdoinham Road. Renata Schalk of Sabattus died at the scene after being hit by a black pickup truck. Thanks to a multitude of tips from the public, police were able to locate the vehicle and take a suspect into custody. The suspect's name has not yet been released.

Governor Janet Mills is working with state, federal, and local officials to launch House America, an initiative that will use billions of dollars from the American Rescue Plan to help the homeless around the country. In Maine, Mills says, the money will go toward housing 1,000 people experiencing homelessness, as well as creating 500 new affordable housing units. All this in addition to supporting existing services.  

Maine hospitals are nearing capacity with more COVID-19 patients than ever before. There are currently 214 patients hospitalized with the virus, which tops the previous high of 207. With the majority of hospitalized patients unvaccinated, health officials continue to encourage Mainers to get the shots, as cases continue to rise.  

The Belfast and Moosehead Lake historic railroad will kick off its fall foliage tours this Saturday. The train will leave the Unity depot at 2:30 on Saturday for a tour around scenic Waldo County. Find more information on the website for the Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad.  

Maine Elks Association will hold a motorcycle ride this Saturday morning to benefit the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. Registration begins at 9 at the Bangor Elks, with kickstands up at 10, and a party at the facility at the end of the ride. Find more information on the Facebook page for the Maine Elks Motorcycle Riders Fall Run for MCCP.