CONTACT:
Conservation Officer Ronald Arsenault
603-744-6304
603-271-3361
January 27, 2020
ROCHESTER, NH – Shortly after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, Conservation Officers encountered a single snowmobile crash involving a 12-year-old male operator from Rochester. The operator had sustained a serious upper-leg injury when the snowmobile he was operating went off the trail and struck a tree. Along with Rochester Police and Fire, Conservation Officers were able to get the operator to an awaiting ambulance quickly.
The operator was riding with his grandfather, Scott Pike of Farmington, NH, when Pike noticed his grandson was no longer following behind him. Pike turned around and found the accident and then immediately called 911. The operator was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Speed and inexperience are considered contributing factors.
According to Conservation Officer Ronald Arsenault, recent snow accumulations have allowed many of the trails in the northern part of the state to open; however, trail users in the southern part of the state should expect early-season riding conditions. Caution should be taken because many trails have portions of bare ground while other trails have sections that are closed entirely. It is critical for people recreating on snowmobiles to ride within their ability level. Most importantly, snowmobilers should follow each other at a safe distance to be able to identify and avoid potential hazards along the trail. For more information about safe riding, please visit www.ride.nh.gov.