February 17, 2019

MDIFW NEWS -- Maine Warden Service Investigating Fatal Snowmobile Incident in Norway

[MDIFW NEWS: Norway, Maine - February 17, 2019] The Maine Warden Service is still investigating a snowmobile fatality that occurred on Pennesseewassee Lake (Norway Lake) in Norway, Maine at 3:35 pm on Saturday February 16, 2019.
The incident was the result of a snowmobile hitting the snowbanks of a plowed road on the lake. Once the snowmobile hit the snowbank it caused the snowmobile to go airborne and the operator, Gracie Herrick Onofrio (DOB 07/04/1966) of Norway, Maine, was thrown from the snowmobile. A second snowmobile from the party then struck Onofrio. Onofrio was pronounced dead at the scene.

Assisting with the investigation at the scene was Norway Police Department, Norway Fire, and PACE ambulance. The snowmobile incident is still currently under investigation. This is Maine's fourth snowmobile fatality this season.

The Maine Warden Service reminds all snowmobile operators to be mindful of their surroundings and manage their speed. When operating on Lakes anticipate pressure ridges or other obstacles that may be present. The snowmobile traffic will be increasing this vacation week.