JEFFERSON, Maine — A local man died Tuesday morning in a two-vehicle crash on Route 32 in Jefferson, according to police.
Robert Lawrence, 73, of Jefferson, died at Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta after being taken there by ambulance, said Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department Sgt. Kenneth Hatch.
Lawrence was driving north on Route 32 in a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee about 9:26 a.m. when a 1999 Chevy Malibu driven by Johnnie James, 19, of Nobleboro, entered the intersection with East Pond Road and collided with Lawrence. Lawrence’s vehicle went off the roadway, struck a tree and landed on its side, according to Hatch. James was not injured.
Police, led by Lincoln County Deputy Brian Collamore and assisted by Maine State Police troopers, were still at the scene midafternoon Tuesday investigating what caused James’ vehicle to enter Route 32 without stopping. No charges have been filed in connection with the crash, said Hatch, who added that James was wearing a seat belt but that he didn’t know whether Lawrence was. Both drivers were alone in their vehicles.
Very sad. Far too many fatalities on the roadways this winter. I hope (and don’t get me wrong, I’m NOT accusing here) this isn’t another “distracted driving” incident. I feel for the family of the deceased and also for the driver of the other car. That’s a very big burden for a 19 year old to carry for the rest of his life, even if it was no fault of his own.
It happens just that quick.
Pay attention, people. Please..
I’m thinking that where they mentioned that they didn’t know why the driver didn’t stop that there is a question of a mechanical failure. On G.M.’s if you loose your power steering you also loose your brakes. I’ve had it happen to me. If you’re driving a G.M. and you hear the power steering pump whining you might want to make sure your brakes work before you need them. The anti-lock brake system runs off the power steering pump.
My condoelences to his friends and family.
Very sorry for the loss of life here. I dont know what happened so I am withholding judgement. I simply want to express my sympathies for the loss of life.