WEST GARDINER, Maine — Officials say a seat belt saved a man’s life after a fiery crash Sunday morning.
Police arrived at the scene around 6 a.m. and found the car on its roof and on fire. The driver, Christopher Ellis, 27, of Litchfield, was out of the vehicle with serious injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Ellis managed to call for help before exiting the vehicle.
According to police, a neighbor saw Ellis lying on the ground outside his car as the fire was spreading toward him and was able to drag him across the road to safety.
Police say Ellis likely fell asleep while driving on the Hallowell-Litchfield Road, causing him to miss a right turn in the roadway and crash into the tree. His vehicle burst into flames and is a total loss. Officials said alcohol is suspected as a factor in the crash, and charges are pending until the toxicology testing is complete.
Ellis was wearing his seat belt, which police say likely saved his life.