Tragedy struck in Indian Purchase Township, Maine, as a teenage driver lost his life in a single-vehicle crash that authorities believe was caused by a collision with a moose. The incident, which claimed the life of 17-year-old Landon Gardner from Millinocket, occurred on Poplar Street in T3 Indian Purchase.
Emergency responders were alerted to the crash after receiving an automatic notification in the early hours of Tuesday. Upon arrival, they discovered a deceased moose on the road and Gardner’s vehicle crashed into trees nearby. Sadly, Gardner was pronounced dead at the scene, with no other individuals involved in the accident.
While it is suspected that the crash was a result of colliding with the moose, investigations are underway to determine the exact circumstances leading to the fatal incident. Maine State Police, along with the East Millinocket Police Department, responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by wildlife on the roads, urging drivers to remain vigilant and cautious while navigating through areas known for animal crossings.
Millinocket teenager, 17, killed in likely collision with moose
Maine Department of Public Safety officials said it appeared as though the crash may have been caused by a collision with a moose.
INDIAN PURCHASE TOWNSHIP, Maine — A teenager from Millinocket has died following a single-vehicle crash in Penobscot County that likely was caused by a collision with a moose.
Dispatchers were notified shortly after midnight Tuesday about a single-vehicle crash on Poplar Street in T3 Indian Purchase, Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss said Friday in a news release.
Bangor Regional Communications Center reported receiving an automatic crash notification.
Emergency responders were sent to the area where they found a dead moose in the roadway and a vehicle that had crashed into trees off the roadway, according to the release.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as 17-year-old Landon Gardner of Millinocket, was found dead at the scene and was the only person in the vehicle.
Safety officials said the crash appeared to have been caused by a collision with the moose, but there were witness accounts reported.
The fatal crash is under investigation.
Maine State Police was assisted at the scene by the East Millinocket Police Department.
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It’s every parent’s worst nightmare – receiving a phone call in the middle of the night with news that their child has been involved in a fatal accident. This nightmare became a reality for the family of a Millinocket teenager, just 17 years old, who was tragically killed in a likely collision with a moose.
What do we know about the accident?
According to reports from the local authorities, the teenager was driving home late at night when the accident occurred. It is believed that a moose wandered onto the road, causing the collision that ultimately took the young life.
How common are moose collisions in this area?
Maine is known for its large moose population, and collisions with these animals are unfortunately not uncommon. Drivers are urged to be extra cautious, especially at night, when visibility is reduced.
What safety measures can be taken to prevent such accidents?
Experts recommend slowing down and being extra vigilant when driving in areas known to have high moose populations. Additionally, installing moose warning devices on vehicles can help alert animals to an oncoming vehicle.
In times of such tragedy, it’s important to remember the preciousness of life and the importance of taking precautions to ensure our safety on the roads. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the young victim as they navigate this difficult time.
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