WALES, Maine — A 17-year-old Mattanawcook Academy student was killed in a crash in Wales Sunday morning.
The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office said in a news release deputies responded to a head-on crash involving an unloaded logging truck and 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan on Route 132, also known as Pond Road, around 9:45 a.m. between Bill Run Road and Junction Road.
An initial investigation revealed the driver of the Volkswagen identified as 17-year-old Sophie Blomsma of Lincoln crossed the center line, striking the unloaded logging truck head-on.
Blomsma died at the scene, according to the sheriff's office. The truck driver was uninjured.
Route 132 was closed for several hours while emergency crews and the Department of Environmental Protection worked the scene.
In a letter to RSU 67 community members, Superintendent Paul Austin said Blomsma was a senior at Mattanawcook Academy.
"Our sincere condolences are offered to Sophie’s family and friends during this difficult time," the letter read, in part.
"As you process this information with your children, we encourage you to listen carefully and to answer questions openly and honestly. Accepting and validating their feelings is important. If you would like your child to speak to a school counselor or other caring adult, please do not hesitate to contact your child's school for assistance. If you or anyone you know needs immediate assistance, you are encouraged to call the Crisis Hotline at 988."
RSU 67 will be providing counseling and bereavement support to all students and staff, and counselors will be available during school hours starting Monday, Austin said.
