Andrew Coombs identified as victim in three-vehicle crash on Gardiner Road; Megan Higgins and 2 children injured
Dresden, Maine — A devastating three-vehicle collision on Gardiner Road (Route 27) on Monday has claimed the life of Andrew Coombs, a 33-year-old resident of Portland. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that Coombs was the driver of the vehicle that initiated the tragic chain of events, which occurred in the early afternoon.

The accident unfolded when Coombs, driving south on Route 27, suddenly veered into the northbound lane. This unexpected maneuver resulted in a catastrophic head-on collision involving two other vehicles traveling in the opposite direction. The force of the impact was so severe that both northbound vehicles flipped onto their roofs, trapping the occupants inside.

Among those involved was Megan Higgins, 43, of Augusta, who was traveling with her two children, aged 10 and 11. The other vehicle was driven by Brad Reed, 41, of Auburn. All three passengers in Higgins’ vehicle, along with Reed, sustained significant injuries and were rushed to MaineGeneral Medical Center in Portland for urgent medical care. The nature of their injuries was described as internal, and while their conditions were serious, there was some relief that all had survived the initial impact.

One of the few silver linings in this tragic event was that all individuals involved were wearing seat belts at the time of the collision. Additionally, the airbags in all three vehicles deployed as designed, likely preventing the injuries from being even more catastrophic. Authorities have praised these safety features for playing a crucial role in saving lives, even as they mourn the loss of Coombs.

The accident led to an extensive emergency response, with Route 27 being shut down for nearly four hours to allow first responders to work safely and efficiently. The road closure extended until approximately 6:30 p.m., with emergency personnel from multiple agencies including Dresden Fire and Rescue, Wiscasset Fire Department, Gardiner Ambulance Service, and Woolwich Fire/Rescue working in tandem to clear the wreckage and assist the injured.

Preliminary reports indicate that Coombs’ driving had been the subject of concern shortly before the crash. Witnesses had reported erratic behavior to the sheriff’s office, but it remains unclear what exactly caused Coombs to lose control of his vehicle. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, with support from crash reconstruction experts from the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office and the Brunswick Police Department. These specialists are meticulously analyzing the scene, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses to determine the factors that led to this tragic incident.

The suddenness and severity of the crash have sent shockwaves through the community, especially as the investigation continues to uncover more details about the events leading up to the collision. There is a palpable sense of grief as friends, family, and community members come to terms with the loss of Andrew Coombs. Simultaneously, thoughts and prayers are being directed towards the injured victims, whose lives have been irrevocably changed by this incident.

As the community processes this tragic event, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with road travel. It underscores the importance of vigilant driving, adherence to road safety measures, and the lifesaving role of seat belts and airbags. Authorities are urging drivers to remain cautious and alert, especially on roads like Route 27, which sees a high volume of traffic.

While the full circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation, the loss of life and the injuries sustained are a sobering reminder of the fragility of life on the road. The findings of the ongoing investigation will be crucial in understanding the cause of the accident and in preventing similar tragedies in the future.

This tragic event has left an indelible mark on the Dresden community, and as the investigation progresses, there is hope that lessons learned from this incident will contribute to improved road safety for all.