Police say Fairfield crash victim ‘critical’

FAIRFIELD — A man involved in a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Route 201 Thursday afternoon was listed in critical condition Friday at a Lewiston hospital, according to police.
Michael Fernald, Sr., 44, of Canaan, was flown to Lewiston by LifeFlight helicopter after the Dodge Ram pickup he was driving was struck by a Subaru at the intersection of Route 23, also known as Ohio Hill Road.
“He’s still in critical condition,” Beaulieu said just before 2 p.m. Friday. “I just talked to family members today.”
 Beaulieu said Thursday that a Chevrolet being driven by Betty Hunt, 82, of Fairfield, entered U.S. Route 201 from Route 23 and broadsided a Subaru being driven by Eugene Steinberger of St. Albans.
The impact sent the Subaru into the southbound lane where it was struck by the Dodge Ram, and the Subaru went into the ditch, according to Beaulieu.
The Dodge Ram continued south, clipping a mailbox pole before flipping over, he said.
Fernald’s son, Michael Fernald Jr., was taken to a hospital with cuts and bruises, he said.
Beaulieu said he spoke with the younger Fernald Friday.
“He’s doing fine — he’s a little sore, he said. They’re all down there (in Lewiston) with (Fernald Sr.).”
Police said Thursday it was unclear whether Hunt did not stop at the stop sign or did not see the Subaru when she pulled onto U.S. Route 201.
Beaulieu said Friday that police have received conflicting reports about that aspect of the accident. He said no charges had been filed and if there is a charge, it would be a motor vehicle violation.
“We’re not looking at any criminal charges for anybody,” he said.
Medical personnel at the scene looked at both Hunt and Steinberger, who refused treatment, according to Beaulieu.

Amy Calder — 861-9247
[email protected]
 

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