Maine Wardens Investigate 2 Separate Fatal Off-Road Crashes

Two men were killed in off-road crashes over the weekend in separate towns.

Lowell, Maine, Man was Killed in an ATV Crash

The first of two happened Friday afternoon, June 19, 2026, in Lowell.

Frank McBride, 75, of Lowell, was killed when his 2023 Can-Am Maverick side-by-side veered off the right side of Shore Lane on a curve.

Shore Lane is a private dirt road that runs along Cold Stream Pond in Lowell.

The vehicle then proceeded across the yard and driveway of a residence, striking a metal basketball pole and glancing off one tree before striking another head-on.

Waterville, Maine, Man was Killed in a Dirt Bike Crash in Mayfield

A second crash happened on Saturday evening on the Palmer Pond Road in Mayfield.

David Pooler, 43, of Waterville, was killed in this crash that involved a dirt bike.

Wardens responded at approximately 7:15 pm and found a 2016 Honda CRF 450R dirt bike off the side of the road and its rider deceased.

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An initial investigation indicates that Pooler was traveling at a high rate of speed on Palmer Pond Road when he lost control of the dirt bike.

Officials say Mr. Palmer was not wearing a helmet and that speed appears to have been a factor in the crash.

Our condolences to the family and friends of both men.

Both incidents remain under investigation.

Maine Wardens have Safety Information for Off-Road Vehicle Operators

ATV riders are reminded of the importance of always being in control of the vehicle, which includes operating at a moderate speed.

More safety information is available from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. 

We'll update this story as more details become available.