UPDATE: This is an update to our press release concerning the fatal crash on Southport July 27.

The Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed the identity of the deceased as James T. Pener, age 18, of Brookline, Massachusetts.  Mr. Pener was operating a 2021 Tesla 4-door at the time of the crash and was the sole occupant.

While it is believed speed was the major factor in the crash, the exact cause is yet to be determined.

ORIGINAL POST: On Wednesday, July 27 at 12:37 a.m., Lincoln County 911 center was notified motor vehicle crash on the Cross Road in Southport. It was reported to be a single vehicle crash where the vehicle had left the roadway, struck a tree and was fully engulfed in flames.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded along with Southport Fire Department and Boothbay Region Ambulance. The vehicle and nearby trees were burning. The Fire Department contained and extinguished the fire.

The operator and sole occupant of the vehicle was deceased at the scene. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending further investigation.

It appears speed may have been a factor in the crash. The crash is being reconstructed by the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone who wishes to provide information regarding this event can use our tip411 line anonymously by texting the keyword LTIP and your tip to 847411.

Any persons with knowledge of this incident may also contact Deputy Caleb Poirier or Sergeant Matthew Day at 207-882-7332.