Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — An unlicensed Caribou teenager has been charged in connection with a three-vehicle accident on the Caribou Rd. Sunday night.
The Presque Isle Police Department were notified at approximately 8:51 p.m. of a three-car pileup in the northbound lanes of Route 1, near the Brewer Rd. intersection. “A male driver in a 1999 Pontiac four-door was headed north, when the young fella passed another vehicle, then jammed on his brakes. The vehicle behind was unable to stop and rear-ended the first,” said Jeff Mechalko, investigating officer with the PIPD.
The second vehicle was described as a 2005 Honda mini van, driven by Brian Anderson, of Caribou. Also in the van were Anderson’s wife and two-year-old son.
“A 1995 Dodge Neon two-door containing five juveniles — all from the Limestone and Caribou area — was following the van and was unable to stop, striking Anderson’s Honda,” said Mechalko.
Before police arrived, witnesses said the driver of the first car sped off, headed toward Caribou.
Mechalko said only minor injuries were reported and all individuals involved were properly secured in their seats. One juvenile female was transported by an adult to the hospital to be checked out.
“Brian went to the hospital Monday, complaining of pain,” added Mechalko.
“The first driver, whose name is being withheld because he is a minor, fled the scene. He was subsequently apprehended by Caribou police. He’s facing three charges, two criminal and one traffic violation, including operating without a license, leaving the scene of a personal injury accident and a traffic infraction for sudden stopping in speed while in traffic, which carries a $137 fine,” said Mechalko, noting the case remains under investigation.
The male juvenile will appear in Presque Isle District Court Nov. 4.
Mechalko estimated the damage to the three vehicles at approximately $12,000. Leo’s and Beaulieu’s, both Caribou towing companies, were contacted and removed the vehicles from the accident site.
Sgt. Laurie Kelly, of the PIPD, and the Presque Isle Fire Department assisted at the scene.
