Plane Crash Near Avon Claims Life of Maine Warden
AVON, ME—A Maine Warden Service plane crashed around 11 a.m. Tuesday near Schoolhouse Pond, resulting in the death of 18-year veteran Warden Joshua Tibbetts, the only occupant.
According to Mark Latti, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, witnesses reported the aircraft appeared to lose control in gusty winds. Tammy Baker-Paradis, who observed the incident while driving on Route 4 with her daughter, described the plane teetering side to side.
The plane, reportedly equipped with water landing gear, was heading north toward Phillips. Witnesses noted wind gusts in the area reached 29 mph shortly before the crash occurred. Baker-Paradis remarked that the aircraft seemed to struggle to gain altitude over nearby mountains.
Emergency responders arrived on scene within minutes, and sirens were heard for approximately 45 minutes following the incident. No additional injuries were reported.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash. Further updates will follow as details become available.