Two Die in Separate Snowmobile Crashes on Friday

Two people are dead, following separate, but similar, snowmobile crashes on Friday.

The first accident happened at around 11 a.m. near Rangeley when a Pennsylvania couple was riding on the Bald Mountain Camps Trail, with three other sleds. Wardens say the 41-year-old woman was driving the sled, with a 41-year-old male passenger seated behind her, when she failed to negotiate a turn in the trail. The snowmobile rolled onto its side and struck trees along the trail. The woman died at the scene. Rangeley Fire and Rescue assisted wardens at the scene. Wardens say speed doesn't appear to have been a factor, but operator inexperience may have contributed.The names of those involved in the crash are being withheld, pending notification of next of kin.

A Massachusetts man was killed shortly before noon in an accident near Baxter State Park, in T2 R9 WELS, as he was riding with two other sleds. 55-year-old Alan Paquette was traveling on the Interconnecting Trail System (ITS) 86, about 3.5 miles east of Abol Bridge when he failed to negotiate a turn in the trail and hit some trees. Wardens say speed and unfamiliarity with the trail likely contributed to this deadly crash. Baxter State Park Rangers and Millinocket Ambulance crews provided significant assistance at the scene. Paquette was wearing a helmet.

Officials say Friday's accidents bring Maine's fatal snowmobile crash total to six, for this riding season. Maine Game Wardens urge snowmobilers to slow down and ask that riders always provide plenty of time to safely stop, negotiate changing terrain and other riders. Fine are imposed on riders found operating recklessly or endangering others on Maine's trails. Failing to do so could result in personal injury or even death. Please ride responsibly.