NORTHPORT, Maine — A Friendship man died and his wife was seriously injured in a head-on crash on Route 1 on July 15.
At approximately 11:48 a.m., Waldo County Regional Communications Center reported a two-vehicle crash on Atlantic Highway. Emergency responders from the Waldo County Sheriff's Office, Maine State Police, and local fire departments arrived at the scene.
Initial investigations revealed that a 2023 Dodge Promaster cargo van, operated by 77-year-old Robert Lary of Friendship, was traveling south when he failed to navigate a curve, crossing the centerline. His van collided with an oncoming 2023 Ford F-350, which was towing a dual axle trailer.
Robert Lary succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His wife, 72-year-old Sherry Lary, was transported by ambulance with serious injuries.
The Ford F-350, operated by 56-year-old Drexel Bailey of Northport, had a passenger, 40-year-old Peter Bailey, also from Northport. Neither sustained injuries.
The investigation into the crash's contributing factors is ongoing; however, authorities indicate that no criminal behavior is suspected. Maine State Police provided support for forensic mapping and crash reconstruction.