Staff Writer
FORT FAIRFIELD –- A two-vehicle accident at lunchtime Sept. 13 seriously injured a local woman, according to Fort Fairfield Police Chief Joe Bubar. Police were notified of the accident on the West Limestone Road at approximately 13:31 p.m.
“We were advised an accident had occurred between a farm truck and a local woman’s vehicle,” said Bubar. “Eric Tilley, 45, of Limestone, was operating a Smith Farms truck headed east, when Kathy Barnes, 55, of Fort Fairfield, was pulling out of her driveway. Barnes’ vehicle was struck broadside.”
Barnes was transported to Cary Medical Center by Crown Ambulance, then flown to Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor where she was listed in serious condition on Friday. There was no additional information on the woman’s status at press time.
According to Bubar, both drivers were the sole occupants of their vehicles. No damage estimate was given.
While the investigation continues, Bubar said he knew of at least one thing that may have contributed to the accident.
“Barnes’ vision may have been obscured by a tree, although there may have been other contributing factors. She apparently didn’t see the truck when she attempted to leave her driveway. The accident is still under investigation,” said Bubar.
Bubar was assisted at the scene by Maine State Police Troopers Jeff Clark, Dale Pelletier, Mike Pelletier and Rob Flynn.
No charges are pending.
