PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Driver inattention is being blamed for a two-vehicle crash near the south entrance to the University of Maine at Presque Isle on Dec. 17 on South Main Street/U.S. Route 1.
“The accident occurred about 2:42 p.m. Taylor Lawrence, 21, of Easton, was headed north and attempted to turn into UMPI but didn’t see Deputy Robert Thibeault, 39, of the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office, who was heading south in his cruiser. Lawrence said he was watching traffic move in and out of UMPI’s driveway but did not see the sheriff’s department vehicle when he attempted to turn into the campus,” said Officer Joey Seeley, who investigated the crash for the Presque Isle Police Department.
According to Seeley, Thibeault was unable to stop, broadsiding Lawrence’s 2005 Ford car with his 2009 Ford Crown Victoria patrol car.
“Both men were wearing seatbelts and no one was injured. The cruiser had extensive front-end damage and Lawrence’s vehicle had significant damage as well. Both were towed from the scene by Mike Cowett’s Towing Service, at each driver’s request,” said Seeley.
Both cars were deemed totaled.
No charges will be filed.
Assisting at the scene were Chief Deputy Laurie Kelly, of the PIPD, and Trooper Jillian Monahan, of the Maine State Police.
