Maine Turnpike Crash Claims Lives of Brian Ellis, 55, and Linda Huelsman, 64; Tractor-Trailer Driver Xioaying Ma, 35, Injured and Cooperating with Authorities as Investigation Continues into Devastating Accident
A devastating crash on the Maine Turnpike in Ogunquit on Thursday morning claimed the lives of two people, shutting down the highway’s southbound lanes for several hours. Maine State Police identified the victims as 55-year-old Brian Ellis of Kittery and 64-year-old Linda Huelsman of Kennebunk.
_Incident Details and Emergency Response_
The accident occurred around 6:05 a.m. when a tractor-trailer, driven by 35-year-old Xioaying Ma of New York City, lost control and veered through the median guardrail, striking two vehicles traveling in the opposite direction. Ma was operating a truck owned by EW Logistics, based in Hauppauge, New York.
After the crash, Ma was transported to York Hospital with injuries that were reported as non-life-threatening. Huelsman, who was driving a Cadillac sedan, was pronounced dead at the scene. Ellis was behind the wheel of a Mack box truck owned by EAN Holdings of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was taken to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
_Investigation and Next Steps_
Authorities believe weather conditions may have played a role in the accident. The York County District Attorney’s Office is now reviewing the case to determine whether any criminal charges will be filed.
The Maine Turnpike Authority issued an alert around 6:30 a.m. informing drivers about the crash at mile 15, between the Wells and York exits. The southbound lanes near Exit 14 in Wells remained closed for several hours as emergency responders worked at the scene, eventually reopening around noon.
_Vehicles Involved and Crash Scene_
Vehicles involved in the crash were scattered across all three lanes, but police managed to temporarily open the center lane to allow some traffic to pass. The crash scene was described as complex, with multiple vehicles involved and debris scattered across the highway.
_Authorities’ Response and Traffic Management_
The Maine Turnpike Authority and local law enforcement agencies worked together to manage traffic and minimize disruptions. Drivers were advised to expect delays and to seek alternative routes.
Meanwhile, another crash at mile 57 in Cumberland caused additional delays, adding to the traffic congestion on the turnpike. Authorities continue to investigate both incidents as they work to determine the exact causes of the crashes.
_Community Reaction and Support_
The community is coming together to support the families of Brian Ellis and Linda Huelsman during this difficult time. Local organizations are offering resources and counseling services to those affected by the tragedy.
As the community mourns the loss of Ellis and Huelsman, they also urge drivers to exercise caution and vigilance on the roads. The fatal crash serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving practices and the devastating consequences of reckless behavior.
_Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Services_
Funeral arrangements for Brian Ellis and Linda Huelsman are currently underway, with details to be announced in the coming days. Memorial services will be planned to honor their lives and provide an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance.
_Investigative Timeline and Next Steps_
The investigation into the fatal crash is ongoing, with the Maine State Police and the York County District Attorney’s Office working together to gather evidence and determine the cause of the accident. The following timeline outlines the key events and next steps in the investigation:
– Thursday: A tractor-trailer driven by Xioaying Ma loses control and crashes into two vehicles on the Maine Turnpike, killing Brian Ellis and Linda Huelsman.
– Thursday (morning): The Maine Turnpike Authority issues an alert informing drivers about the crash and advising them to expect delays.
– Thursday (afternoon): The southbound lanes of the Maine Turnpike are reopened after being closed for several hours.
– Ongoing: Investigators gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review crash data to determine the cause of the accident.
– Upcoming: The York County District Attorney’s Office will review the findings of the investigation to determine whether any criminal charges will be filed.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available.
