MSP Investigating Fatal Crash in Benton

On Sunday, November 17, 2024, at approximately 4:17 PM, Troopers responded to the area of mile-marker 134, north-bound on I-95 in Benton, for the report of a single vehicle crash off the right side of the roadway. Upon arrival, Troopers confirmed that the operator and sole occupant of the vehicle, 20-year-old Isaiah Mathieu of Clinton was deceased. The initial investigation indicates that Mathieu failed to negotiate a bend in the roadway, before going off the right side and striking the guardrail.  After striking the guardrail, the vehicle, a 2004 Chevy Trax, sustained substantial damage before entering a ditch near the tree line. The exact reason why Isaiah left the roadway is unknown; however, speed and failure to negotiate the roadway are contributing factors. The crash remains under investigation. Troopers were assisted on scene by MaineDOT, Clinton Fire Department, and Blanchard’s Towing.

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, at approximately 9:00 PM, Troopers responded to a single vehicle crash on the Kennebec River Bridge on I-95 in Benton. The initial investigation indicates that the driver, 41-year-old Jed Carpenter of Harrington was traveling southbound when he lost control of his 2006 Ford Econoline Van and struck the bridge rail. Carpenter who was not wearing a seatbelt was partially ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased on scene. The Interstate was diminished to one lane while crews worked to remove Carpenter’s body from the scene. Carpenter was the sole occupant of the vehicle. Speed and alcohol appear to be factors in this crash. Assisting on scene were the Fairfield and Benton Fire-Rescue Department, Fairfield Police Department, Clinton Police Department and Dostie’s Towing.