News

Police tried to stop speeding driver that caused fatal crash

Police tried to stop speeding driver that caused fatal crash

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


FARMINGTON, Maine (AP) Police in Maine say a deputy tried to stop a man for speeding before he caused a fatal accident.

Oxford County Police say 23-year-old Ethan John Rioux-Poulios, of Woodstock, is responsible for the crash that killed 70-year-old John Pikiell, of Norway, on Route 26 Monday.

The Portland Press Herald reports a deputy tried to stop Rioux-Poulios, who was going 87 mph in a 55-mph zone, but lost sight of the vehicle.

Authorities say another person flagged him down and told him about the accident. Pikiell’s vehicle was hit from behind and forced off the road.

Rioux-Poulios has been charged with manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident. Oxford County Jail officials said they don’t yet know who’s representing Rioux-Poulios.

His father’s been charged with hindering apprehension by lying to police.

Latest Headlines

12 hours ago in Local

Trump Shuts Down Offshore Wind in New England; Nova Scotia Eyes Opportunity

The administration’s freeze on U.S. ocean wind projects could set clean energy back a decade. Nova Scotia’s massive Wind West project hopes to fill the gap and even sell power to the U.S.

12 hours ago in Local

Federal Policy Could Push Hundreds of Mainers Out of Long-Term Housing

HUD plans to cut funding for permanent supportive housing and shift to transitional programs, leaving vulnerable Mainers at risk of homelessness. Advocates warn shelters could be overwhelmed.

13 hours ago in Local

Maine Announces $550K in Grants to Boost Coastal Resilience

The state just announced $550,000 in grants to help communities prepare for future storms and flooding. Towns and regional groups can apply for funding to strengthen infrastructure and plan for climate risks. Applications are due Jan. 5.

13 hours ago in Local

Portland Unveils Maine’s First Electric Boat Charger

Portland just unveiled the state’s first electric boat charger at Wright’s Wharf. The move is part of a push to cut emissions and noise in the marine industry.

13 hours ago in Local

Overdose Deaths Continue to Decline in Maine for Third Year

Overdose deaths have dropped for the third year in a row! Fatal overdoses are down 23% compared to last year, and officials credit naloxone distribution and expanded treatment options. If the trend continues, Maine could see the fewest overdose deaths in six years.