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Driver Arrested on Thanksgiving After Fatal I-95 U-Haul Crash in Maine

Police say they recovered a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine in his backpack.

Overview

  • Tyler Hewitt, 31, of Presque Isle, was taken into custody after officers first searched near Hill Road in Clinton and later found him walking along I-95.
  • He is charged with aggravated trafficking of scheduled drugs, leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, and operating after suspension.
  • Authorities identified the passenger who died as John Perkins, 38, of Hampden.
  • Investigators say the 2025 GMC Savana rental left the northbound lanes near mile marker 138, went airborne over the median crossover, and struck a tree on the southbound side.
  • The search for the fleeing driver led to a temporary highway shutdown earlier in the week, and Maine State Police say the investigation remains ongoing.