Fatal Accident on Vinalhaven - January 17, 2017

On January 17, 2017, at approximately 12:00 PM, Knox County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Rob Potter responded to a single vehicle crash on the Lands Island Rd. on Vinalhaven.  A 2016 Dodge Truck, driven by Patrick Gasperini, 28, of Vinalhaven reportedly crashed in to a large tree and rolled over.  Although Gasperini was conscious and alert at the scene and was assisted by rescue personnel to the waiting ambulance, Gasperini died at the hospital due to the extent of internal injuries he had suffered. 

Prior to the crash, witnesses reported seeing a black Dodge pickup truck travel past them at a high rate of speed. After passing them, the truck ran head-on into a large tree, rolled about 100 feet, and came to rest in a group of rocks at the bottom of a steep embankment.

From statements made by Gasperini at the scene, Deputy Potter believes there was a medical issue prior to the crash.    

The crash is still under investigation.  Deputy Potter was assisted at the scene by Vinalhaven Fire and EMS.