(PORTLAND, Maine) September 21, 2023 – A young child died after being struck by a tow truck driver in Chelsea. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon. The names of the victim and driver have not been released.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy. We send our deepest condolences to the victim’s loved ones,” said Bicycle Coalition of Maine Executive Director Jean Sideris.
The BCM urges law enforcement to carefully examine roadway conditions, behavior of those involved, phone use records, and any additional circumstances that may have been contributing factors.
Fourteen pedestrians have been killed by drivers in Maine this year, according to the BCM’s tracking, and MaineDOT reports another 139 have been hit and injured. One bicycle rider has been killed, and another 103 have been injured in crashes with motor vehicles.
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The Bicycle Coalition of Maine works to make Maine a better and safer place to bike and walk. Founded in 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine has grown into the leading bicycle and pedestrian advocacy group in the state. The Coalition believes all Mainers should have access to bikes and bike education, and we envision a future where Maine’s roads, public ways, and trails are safe and accessible, resulting in cleaner travel options, improved health, and stronger economic benefits for Maine communities.