A student at Noble High School has been identified as the driver killed Thursday afternoon in a collision with the Amtrak Downeaster in North Berwick, according to school officials.
He was identified as Aiden Keefe, a senior, in a letter sent to parents by the school’s principal Thursday.
“Our hearts go out to Aiden’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, and we extend our deepest condolences,” Principal AJ Dufort said in the letter. “Aiden was a valued member of the Noble school community, and he will be deeply missed.”
Dufort said the school would remain open as normal Friday and have counselors available for students and staff.
Keefe, who was alone in a pickup truck when the crash happened, was declared dead at the scene when first responders arrived, according to police.
North Berwick police Chief Stephen Peasely said Thursday night that it’s unclear what caused the crash and the railroad gates were working properly.
Peasley said it appeared that Keefe was turning right onto Elm Street (Route 4) from Buffum Road. The railroad tracks cut diagonally across Elm Street near its intersection with Buffum Road.
Riverside Farm Stand & Greenhouse in North Berwick posted a statement on social media Friday saying Keefe worked on the farm in the 2024 season and described him as “polite, funny and a hard worker.”
Keefe also played football for Noble High School.
Morgan covers breaking news and public safety for the Portland Press Herald. Before moving to Maine in 2024, she reported for Michigan State University’s student-run publication, as well as the Indianapolis…
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