Two Fatal Snowmobile Crashes Under Investigation in Maine

A 36-year-old Etna man died early Saturday morning in Maine’s sixth snowmobile-related fatality this year and the second in two days.

The Maine Warden Service says Jack McKay III was snowmobiling with a group on ITS 85 in Newport around midnight when he failed to negotiate a curve and struck a tree. McKay was discovered by two others shortly after the crash. He passed away as a result of his injuries.

The two other riders were Benjamin Roundy, 36, from Newport and Cain Mackenzie, 36, from Plymouth. Wardens say Mackenzie was summonsed for operating a snowmobile under the influence. No charges have been filed against Roundy at this time.

The accident is being investigated to determine if speed and alcohol were involved. The Maine Warden Service was assisted at the scene by Newport Police and Newport Fire Department.

On Friday, Buxton Police responded to a fatal snowmobile crash on a public road. A 54-year-old woman was killed as she crossed the road on her sled while following her husband and was struck by an SUV.

With snowmobile trails in Maine now in excellent condition, game wardens anticipate trails will be used heavily during this weekend and school vacation week. They urge all riders to ride responsibly and never drink and drive.