Four Maine Maritime Academy students dead after Castine car crash

CASTINE, Maine (AP) — Four Maine Maritime Academy students were killed when a sport utility vehicle crashed into a tree and burst into flames early Saturday.

The Maine Department of Public Safety says police responded to a single vehicle crash shortly after 2 o’clock this morning.

Officials say the vehicle was traveling south on Route 166, known as Shore Road, when it left the road and struck a tree before erupting in flames.

The driver and two other passengers — all of them students, as well — survived the crash and were transported to local hospitals, according to state police spokesperson Shannon Moss.

The state medical examiner’s office identified the deceased as 20-year-old Brian Kenealy of York, Maine; 21-year-old Chase Fossett, 21, of Gardiner; Luke Simpson, 22, of Rockport, Massachusetts; and 20-year-old Riley Ignacio-Cameron of Aquinnah, Massachusetts.

Maine Maritime Academy President Jerry S. Paul issued a statement, saying, quote: “Our community is grieving for these young lives and for their families. While we have lost beloved members of our student body, tonight there are four families who have lost their children. I ask for continued respect and privacy of our Maine Maritime family. Please hold these young people close to your hearts and in your prayers.”

Shore Road was closed for eight hours after the crash at about 2 a.m. Saturday, and has since reopened

The crash happened after the last day of fall classes at Maine Maritime Academy, and finals were scheduled for next week.

Maine Maritime Academy plans to have grief counselors on hand for students, faculty and staff.

Copyright 2022 WABI. All rights reserved.