(PORTLAND, Maine) September 18, 2023 – A man working on a paving crew was struck and killed by a coworker driving a vehicle. Mark Francis, 48, was working on a paving project in Oxford around 11:30 a.m. on Friday when the incident occurred.
“We send our deepest condolences to the victim’s loved ones,” said Bicycle Coalition of Maine Executive Director Jean Sideris.
The incident is being investigated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The BCM urges OSHA and any law enforcement involved to carefully examine the site conditions, worker behaviors, and any additional circumstances that may have been contributing factors. “This tragic incident underscores the fact that a vehicle can become deadly in a single moment and is a reminder to be cautious and careful when operating a vehicle at all times,” said Sideris.
Thirteen 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.