Dec. 16 at about 5:50 a.m., Lincoln County Communications Center received a report of a motor vehicle accident on Gardiner Road in Whitefield.   

Gavin P. Martin, 21, of Edgecomb was operating his tan 2005 Chevy Colorado truck eastbound on Gardiner Road. At the intersection of Gardiner Road and Hunts Meadow Road, the vehicle crossed over the westbound lane and left the roadway. On the westbound shoulder, the vehicle struck a utility pole, breaking the pole. The vehicle rolled onto its roof and came to rest in a grove of trees.   

Martin was the sole occupant of the vehicle; he was not wearing his seatbelt. The airbags did deploy.   

Unfortunately, Martin died in this event. The initial investigation indicates speed was a factor in this collision.   

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputies were assisted by Whitefield Fire and Delta Ambulance. The roadway was closed to traffic for three hours. If any motorists witnessed the event, they are asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 207-882-7332. Deputy Rogers is the primary investigator.