No Criminal Charges in Recycling Center Death

72-year-old Christine Sharp-Lopez won't be charged in the accident that caused the death of 79-year-old Herbert Dennison on Nov. 24

Authorities have determined that no criminal charges will be filed against the driver whose vehicle struck and killed Cape Elizabeth's former public works director at the Maine town's transfer station.

Cumberland County District Attorney Stephanie Anderson says 72-year-old Christine Sharp-Lopez won't be charged in the accident that caused the death of 79-year-old Herbert Dennison on Nov. 24.

Authorities say an examination of Sharp-Lopez's SUV revealed no mechanical defects. Neither had been drinking.

Dennison was throwing garbage into a trash compactor at the facility when he was struck by Sharp-Lopez's reversing vehicle. The force of the blow pushed Dennison into the below-ground compactor, which wasn't operating.

Town officials have established a new traffic pattern at the facility to prevent future accidents.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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