(Portland, ME) April 17, 2024 – Margaret “Peggy” Pooler, 57, was hit by a driver of an SUV at near the intersection of Sabbatus and College Streets last week in Lewiston. She died of her injuries while being treated at Maine Medical Center.
Reports indicate the driver of the SUV has not been charged, but the crash is under review by the district attorney’s office.The BCM urges law enforcement to carefully examine the conditions, driver and pedestrian behavior, and any additional circumstances that may have been contributing factors.
Peggy Pooler was part of the unhoused community in Lewiston, and her death underscores the pervasive dangers that accompany people who spend much of their days on the streets.
“We send our deepest condolences to the victim’s loved ones,” said Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM) Executive Director Jean Sideris.
This is the third pedestrian fatality this year and 35 crashes have been reported. No cyclist fatalities have been reported; 13 bicycle crashes have been reported. These numbers are similar to previous years at this point in the year.
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The Bicycle Coalition of Maine works to make Maine a better and safer place to bike and walk. Founded in 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine has grown into the leading bicycle and pedestrian advocacy group in the state. The Coalition believes all Mainers should have access to bikes and bike education, and we envision a future where Maine’s roads, public ways, and trails are safe and accessible, resulting in cleaner travel options, improved health, and stronger economic benefits for Maine communities.