The operator in a Mechanic Falls, Maine, hayride crash that killed a teenager and injured 22 others could not stop due to a mechanical failure, police said Sunday.
On Sunday, all patients, but one were released from Central Maine Medical Center, St. Mary's Hospital and Maine Medical Center, including the driver of the Jeep, 54-year-old, David Brown. The most seriously injured is 16-year old, Connor Garland, who remains at Boston Children's Hospital and at last check wasin fair condition. Garland attended Messalonskee High School with Cassidy Charette, who died overnight at CMMC from her injuries.
At least 40 students gathered at Messalonskee High School earlier on Sunday, where Charette was a student and varsity athlete. Many were holding hands and hugging one another. They said it's difficult to try and comprehend what happened that night.
Heartbreaking, devastating, and shocking are words being used by school officials, community leaders, and students to describe the horrific loss. About a month ago, students at the high school experienced another tragedy - a student took their own life. It's been a very difficult month at Messalonskee High School. Now, the community is gathering to help students in their time of need.
NEWS CENTER spoke with the superintendent, who held a crisis meeting with his advisers on how to help students during this difficult time. The team said Monday's events and practices will go on as scheduled. Grief counselors will be set up at the school tomorrow from 9 to noon, and again from 3 to 6 in the high school library. Mental health professionals will also be available at the high school throughout the week for students.
They're also encouraging students to call the Maine Crisis Hotline if they need someone to talk to. That number is 1-888-568-1112.
