Overview

• Crash occurred around 7 a.m. on the southbound side near the West Gardiner/Gardiner line, involving a 2020 Audi.
• Trooper Tom Bureau removed his gear and dove about seven feet to the submerged car but could not open the door due to oil in the water.
• Authorities later learned the driver had already escaped the vehicle and swum to a nearby home.
• Investigators say Nale likely fell asleep before the car left the highway, struck a sign and concrete barrier, and launched into the stream.
• Nale was treated for non-life-threatening injuries at MaineGeneral Hospital as the State Police Dive Team recovered the car and the left lane reopened after about an hour.