By Tiffany Williams –
Maine officials responded to several significant developments over the weekend, including reports that Elon Musk is preparing a major political spending effort in the state, a pedestrian crash under investigation in Mechanic Falls, a boat fire on Long Lake, and a fatal head-on collision in Randolph.
Political Spending Targets Maine
Tech billionaire Elon Musk is reportedly preparing to include Maine in a major political spending effort aimed at helping Republicans retain control of the U.S. Senate in November.
According to reports, Musk has authorized his aligned super PAC, America PAC, to spend between $100 million and $120 million on a new voter turnout program in several states.
Mechanic Falls Pedestrian Crash
Police in Mechanic Falls are investigating after a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle Saturday night.
Fire and rescue crews responded to Pleasant Street at approximately 9:30 p.m. following reports of a crash involving a pedestrian.
Emergency crews provided medical care at the scene before the pedestrian was transported to Central Maine Medical Center. Authorities have not released additional information on the victim’s condition as the investigation continues.
Boat Fire Forces Passengers Into Water
A boat caught fire Saturday afternoon in Naples, forcing its occupants to jump into the water.
Naples Fire & Rescue responded to the fire off the Naples Causeway at approximately 2:30 p.m.
When firefighters arrived, officials said most of the fire had already been extinguished by a passerby on a jet ski.
The boat’s passengers, who had jumped overboard, were picked up by a passing boat and evaluated by rescue crews.
The damaged vessel was later towed to the town beach, where it was removed.
Fatal Randolph Crash
A 62-year-old Gardiner woman died and two other people suffered serious injuries following a head-on crash in Randolph.
The crash occurred just after 2 p.m. Thursday on Water Street.
Authorities said Debra Alexander, 62, of Gardiner, was driving when her vehicle crossed into the oncoming lane and struck another vehicle head-on.
An 18-year-old passenger riding in Alexander’s vehicle, also from Gardiner, was transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
The crash remains under investigation.