Robert Chambers, a 63-year-old resident of Fort Fairfield, Maine, tragically lost his life in a fatal crash involving his 2021 Can-Am UTV and a loaded 2007 Kenworth tractor-trailer on Presque Isle Street, also known as Route 1A, on Thursday afternoon.
At approximately 1:45 p.m., emergency personnel responded to a report of a crash in the area of McShea Siding, where they found Chambers driving his UTV southbound on Presque Isle Street, attempting to cross the road to reach the local ATV trail.
Tragically, Chambers turned abruptly into the roadway from the shoulder and was struck by the tractor-trailer driven by a 21-year-old from New Brunswick, who was also traveling southbound. Chambers was ejected from the UTV and pronounced dead at the scene, while the tractor-trailer driver was not injured.
A crash reconstructionist determined that Chambers was not wearing a helmet or seatbelt at the time of the crash, which occurred in an area where the local ATV trail uses the public roadway to connect trails. The scene was closed for investigation for about three hours, and the road was reopened at 6:50 p.m.
Several agencies assisted in the response, including Fort Fairfield Fire Rescue, the Maine State Police, the Presque Isle Police Department, the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office, the Maine Department of Transportation, and the Maine State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit.
Chambers’ tragic death is a devastating loss for his family, friends, and the community of Fort Fairfield, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. His love for outdoor adventures and his passion for driving will be deeply missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of wearing safety gear, including helmets and seatbelts, while operating any vehicle, especially in areas where trails and public roadways intersect. The community of Fort Fairfield comes together to mourn the loss of one of their own and to support the Chambers family during this difficult time.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the community remains in shock and grief, remembering Robert Chambers as a kind and adventurous soul who will be deeply missed. His memory will be honored and celebrated by all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to live life to the fullest.
The Fort Fairfield Police Department and the Maine State Police are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area between 1:45 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Thursday to come forward and assist in the investigation. The community is coming together to support the Chambers family and to ensure that justice is served.
Robert Chambers’ tragic death is a devastating reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety on our roads and trails. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to live life with passion and purpose. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
