Tragedy struck in Avon, Maine, on 12 May when a single-engine plane crash claimed the life of a valued member of the community, Joshua Tibbetts, a game warden with the Maine Warden Service. At the age of 50, Tibbetts had served his state for 18 years, dedicatedly performing his duties to protect Maine’s natural resources and ensuring public safety.
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The crash occurred shortly before midday, around 11:45 a.m. local time, when the Cessna 185F piloted by Tibbetts went down in a wooded area. The incident was confirmed by officials from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife during a press conference. Notably, he was the only individual on board at the time of the accident.
Tim Peabody, acting commissioner of the department, expressed the profound loss felt throughout the community, stating, “We are grieving the loss of a dedicated public servant, colleague and member of the Maine Warden Service. These tragedies touch us all.” Public condolences were echoed by Governor Janet Mills, who remarked, “My heart is with the warden’s family and loved ones, their colleagues at the Maine Warden Service, and all affected by this tragedy.”
An early investigation report from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) noted that they, along with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), would take charge of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. NTSB representatives are expected to provide updates as information becomes available.
The scene of the accident was attended by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, which later issued a statement expressing their shock and sorrow over the loss. They reflected, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the pilot’s family, friends, and the entire Maine Warden Service family during this incredibly difficult time. Incidents like this are a solemn reminder of the risks faced every day by those who serve the people of Maine.”
Witnesses reported a troubling sight shortly before the crash. Tammy Baker-Paradis, who was driving with her 9-year-old daughter, described seeing the aircraft flying low and erratically. “It disappeared, it literally was there and it was gone,” she told local media. Her daughter even remarked that it seemed to crash into a nearby mountain, which added to the family’s concern.
During the press conference, Colonel Dan Scott of the Maine Warden Service said that they would fully cooperate with both the FAA and NTSB during the investigation. He expressed the weight of the loss: “Today’s crash is an absolute tragedy, which will permanently change the lives of so many people forever.” Scott highlighted Tibbetts’ commitment to his role and the inherent dangers that come with being a game warden.
“Josh is a dedicated veteran of the Maine Warden Service who has put himself in harm’s way many times to protect the people of the State of Maine as well as our natural resources,” Scott added. He concluded by stressing that this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by all first responders on a daily basis.
In the wake of this devastating event, the Maine community is coming together to mourn the loss of a man who had dedicated nearly two decades of his life to safeguarding the environment and the residents of Maine. As further details come to light regarding the incident, many will likely reflect on the invaluable contribution Tibbetts made during his tenure. This tragedy not only highlights the dangers faced by game wardens but also underscores the deep sense of camaraderie within the service and the wider community.
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife has promised to keep the public informed as more information becomes available. As the investigations get underway, support and condolences continue to pour in from relatives, friends, and colleagues alike, who recognise the lasting impact of Tibbetts’ dedication to his role and the state he served so fervently.