A tractor trailer that was carrying a processing chemical used on french fries crashed in The County on Wednesday morning.
The 2019 International Tractor, driven by 22-year-old Kendra Harris from Augusta, Georgia, was eastbound on State Road in Castle Hill at approximately 11:31 a.m. when Harris lost control of the vehicle on a curve, according to Sgt. Josh Haines of Troop F of the Maine State Police.
The tractor trailer then crossed into the westbound lane and went into a ditch, coming to rest on a snowbank.
The trailer was carrying 40,000 pounds of a chemical called Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, which is used to adjust the acidity and maintain color in processed foods, such as canned meats, seafood and potatoes.
The trailer, owned by Ryder Truck Rental Co. in Miami, Florida, was carrying the processing chemical to the Penobscot McCrum’s french fry plant in Washburn, according to Haines.
Harris, who was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, suffered from a minor leg injury, but did not require medical attention.
The tractor trailer was towed from the scene after being damaged in the crash.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, with officials attributing speed and driver inattention as contributing factors, Haines said.