Maine Injury Lawyer Blog

July 5, 2025

Officials Shocked At Series of Fatal Accidents in Acadia National Park

According to a recent article, Acadia National Park has experienced a troubling cluster of incidents in late June, resulting in two fatalities and one serious injury. On June 23, a 20‑year‑old climber fell about 20 feet on Champlain Mountain’s South Wall and was rescued by fellow climbers before being treated by rangers. Two days later, on June 25, another hiker collapsed and struck his head near the summit of Cedar Swamp Mountain; despite being airlifted to Bangor’s Eastern Maine Medical Center, he later died. Finally, on June 30, park rangers assisted the Maine Marine Patrol after a sailboat ran aground off Isle au Haut, where a Canadian man was found dead. Park Superintendent Kevin Schneider expressed how “devastating” it is to experience multiple such tragedies in quick succession and urged visitors to exercise increased caution during hikes and outings.

Maine is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with thousands of miles of hiking trails, scenic state parks, and access to some of the most breathtaking areas of Acadia National Park. While outdoor recreation is a cherished pastime, it can also come with serious risks. Accidents and injuries on trails, in parks, and during hikes are more common than many realize—and they can raise complex legal issues when negligence or unsafe conditions are involved.

Common Causes of Hiking and Park Injuries

June 23, 2025

Two Group Home Residents Killed In Tragic Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a Honda Odyssey transporting clients of John F. Murphy Homes—a group home for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities—was struck by a Chevrolet Silverado after attempting to cross. Two women in the van, Catherine Chafin (57) and Emily Bennett (44), tragically lost their lives at Central Maine Medical Center. The driver, a 21-year-old direct caregiver, and another staff member sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The truck’s driver escaped serious harm.

At Peter Thompson & Associates, we recognize that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are among the most vulnerable members of our communities. When families entrust the care of a loved one to a group home or residential facility, they expect a safe environment, attentive supervision, and respectful treatment. Tragically, this trust is sometimes broken—resulting in serious injuries, emotional trauma, or even death.

When preventable harm occurs in a group home setting, legal action may be warranted—not just to secure compensation, but to protect others from similar risks.

June 12, 2025

Deer on Turnpike Leads to Multi-Vehicle Pile Up in York

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, on Tuesday evening near mile marker 13 in York, Maine, a deer-related accident on the Maine Turnpike triggered a multi-vehicle crash. The incident began when a red Mitsubishi Mirage struck a deer in the center lane and became disabled. Although the driver exited safely, a fuel-carrying commercial truck soon crashed into the stalled car, forcing it into the median. The truck then collided with a nearby BMW crossover, sending both vehicles off the right side of the highway. Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded quickly to the scene. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported, though the deer was killed in the collision.

Maine’s beautiful wilderness is one of the state’s most cherished features—but it also presents unique challenges for drivers. Every year, hundreds of car accidents in Maine are caused by encounters with wildlife, particularly moose and deer. These accidents can result in serious injuries, extensive vehicle damage, and in the worst cases, fatalities. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are committed to helping accident victims understand their rights and options when wildlife unexpectedly turns a scenic drive into a life-altering event.

The Scope of the Problem

June 3, 2025

19-Year Old Killed In Motorcycle Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a tragic motorcycle accident in Kennebunk has left a Wells family mourning the loss of 19-year-old Cameron Mahoney. The fatal collision occurred Wednesday, May 28, at the intersection of Alewife and Walker Roads—an area now under renewed scrutiny for safety improvements. Cameron had just finished his shift at Dryden Autobody in Lyman and was heading home on his motorcycle when he collided with a car at the intersection. Police confirmed he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The driver of the car, a 28-year-old woman, sustained minor injuries. As of now, no charges have been filed, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Motorcycles offer riders a unique sense of freedom on the open road, especially here in Maine where scenic highways and coastal routes attract motorcyclists throughout the warmer months. However, that freedom often comes with increased risk. Motorcycle accidents can result in devastating injuries or death due to the lack of physical protection compared to passenger vehicles. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are committed to helping injured riders and their families understand their legal rights and recover the compensation they deserve.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous

May 18, 2025

Teenage Brothers Critically Injured After Dirt Bike Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, two teenage brothers from Ellsworth (aged 14 and 16) are receiving critical medical treatment in Boston following a serious dirt bike collision. The incident occurred at a gravel pit near Route 200 in Franklin, according to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

Authorities report that the brothers, Bentley and Cooper Miles, were riding toward each other on a trail when one made a sharp left turn, leading to a crash. Neither teen was wearing a helmet, and both sustained significant injuries to their heads, upper bodies, and limbs.

In response to the accident, the local community has mobilized to assist the family. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $30,000, and area businesses are contributing as well. One local company is creating custom decals to distribute in exchange for donations, helping cover the family’s expenses. “They’ve given so much to others—it’s only right we give back,” said Mark Baxter, owner of Forge Training Center. Jean Wood of the Down East Family YMCA echoed that sentiment, noting the community’s strong tradition of support.

May 13, 2025

Auburn Man Hospitalized After Fiery Construction Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a construction accident near Auburn City Hall led to a fire and road closures Thursday afternoon during rush hour. The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. while crews were installing a sewer liner as part of a storm drain improvement project. According to Auburn Fire Deputy Chief Matt Fifield, a fueling mishap likely triggered the fire, which ignited the flammable resin-based liner being installed in a manhole on Court Street. Flames were visible shooting from the manhole when emergency crews arrived.

The fire, which also threatened a nearby truck connected to the liner, took a considerable amount of time to bring under control. One worker sustained burns to his arms and was transported to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston for treatment. As of 5:30 p.m., sections of Court and Turner Streets remained closed due to the incident.

Construction sites are inherently dangerous, even when safety protocols are followed. Workers operate heavy machinery, handle hazardous materials, and often perform tasks at dangerous heights or in confined spaces. Unfortunately, when accidents happen, they can lead to serious injuries, long-term disabilities, or even death. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we’re dedicated to helping injured workers and their families seek justice and full compensation after construction site accidents in Maine.

May 5, 2025

Skydiving Accident Leaves One Critically Injured

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a man suffered critical injuries after plummeting over 50 feet at high speed during a skydiving incident on Thursday afternoon in Lebanon, Maine. The fall occurred at Skydive New England, shortly after 2:20 p.m., prompting an emergency call to the Sanford Regional Communications Center. Although LifeFlight of Maine was initially contacted, a Boston MedFlight helicopter was ultimately dispatched and landed at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, New Hampshire. Emergency personnel from Lebanon and Frisbie Memorial Hospital provided on-site care before transporting the victim to a trauma center. The Federal Aviation Administration is currently investigating the cause of the accident. Skydive New England, which recently launched its 2025 season, is noted as one of the largest skydiving operations in the country.

Skydiving offers an unparalleled adrenaline rush and breathtaking views—but when things go wrong, the consequences can be catastrophic. As the popularity of adventure sports grows, so too does the risk of injury due to equipment failure, operator negligence, or improper training. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are committed to helping victims of preventable skydiving accidents seek justice and compensation.

The Risks Behind the Rush

April 30, 2025

Scallop Fishing Accident Kills 26-Year-Old Father of Two

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, 26-year-old Jaxson Marston of Addison, Maine, tragically lost his life in a scallop fishing accident off the coast of Massachusetts. While working aboard the vessel 25 TO LIFE, approximately 25 nautical miles east of Nahant, Marston was struck in the neck by a rope that had snapped under tension. The impact caused a broken neck and left him intermittently unresponsive. Despite being rushed to shore by the U.S. Coast Guard and transported to Beverly Hospital, Marston was pronounced dead upon arrival. Another crew member also sustained serious injuries, including a concussion and possible broken ribs. Marston leaves behind a 1-year-old daughter and a girlfriend who is currently pregnant with their second child. In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $90,000 to support his grieving family.

Maine’s commercial fishing industry is not just a vital part of the state’s economy—it’s a way of life for thousands of families across the coast. From lobstering in Penobscot Bay to scallop dredging off the shores of Downeast Maine, fishing is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the region. But along with its economic and cultural significance, commercial fishing remains one of the most dangerous professions in the country.

The Hazards of Commercial Fishing

April 21, 2025

Three Dead in Lewiston Crash

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a tragic car crash in Lewiston has claimed the lives of three people, including a young mother, her infant daughter, and the child’s father. The Lewiston Police Department confirmed that 20-year-old Adaysia Read died from her injuries over the weekend, days after the late-night crash occurred on Grove Street. Her 7-month-old daughter, Kinsley Willigar, and the vehicle’s driver, 20-year-old Tyrell Willigar of Brunswick, also died as a result of the crash.

Witnesses say the car collided with a tree in a residential yard, and police believe speed was a contributing factor. Both Read and her daughter were initially taken to Central Maine Medical Center in critical condition and later transferred to Maine Medical Center in Portland. Kinsley was pronounced dead the following morning.

Why Speed Matters

April 9, 2025

Maine Man Killed In Sugarloaf Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a 63-year-old snowboarder from Kingfield, Kendall Willard, died following an accident at Sugarloaf Mountain. The Maine Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that Willard died from blunt force trauma after falling while attempting to retrieve a glove he had dropped from a chairlift. Authorities report that Willard walked down a closed trail, which had been shut due to icy conditions. He lost his footing and slid approximately 800 feet into a group of trees. The incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. on Saturday. Local officials and the community have expressed condolences to his family and friends.

Maine’s rugged mountains and scenic slopes make it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. From Sugarloaf to Sunday River, winter sports enthusiasts come from all over to enjoy the snow-covered terrain. However, with these exciting outdoor activities comes the risk of serious injury. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the complexities of skiing accident claims and are here to help injured individuals pursue the compensation they deserve.

Common Causes of Skiing Accidents