UPDATE: A tragic snowmobile accident in Washburn, Maine, has claimed the life of a 17-year-old girl this afternoon. The incident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. on Story Street, according to officials from the Maine Warden Service.
The girl was a passenger on the snowmobile driven by a 17-year-old boy. Reports confirm the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed when it failed to navigate a 90-degree turn, resulting in a collision with a curb. The snowmobile flipped over, ejecting both teenagers and ultimately crashing into the side of a nearby house.
Authorities report that the girl was pronounced dead at the scene, while the boy sustained multiple injuries. He was first transported to Cary Medical Center in Caribou before being transferred to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor for further treatment. Both teens were wearing helmets at the time of the accident, according to Maine Warden Service spokesperson Mark Latti.
The identities of the victims have not been released as the investigation remains ongoing. Emergency responders from Presque Isle EMS, Presque Isle Fire and Rescue, and the Presque Isle Police Department assisted at the scene, highlighting the urgent nature of the response.
This incident has shocked the local community, emphasizing the dangers associated with winter sports. As authorities continue to investigate, residents are urged to exercise caution when engaging in recreational activities during the winter months.
Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available.
