Woolwich, Maine – September 5, 2025 — A tragic motor vehicle crash early Friday morning claimed the life of 38-year-old Alex C. Colson of Rockland and left another driver hospitalized following a fiery head-on collision on U.S. Route 1.
At 4:22 a.m., the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a serious crash between the Montsweag Restaurant and the Mountain Road intersection. Responding deputies and fire personnel arrived to find two vehicles fully engulfed in flames as a result of the violent impact.
According to investigators, a 2022 Toyota Tundra, driven by Colson, was traveling northbound on U.S. Route 1 when it crossed the centerline into the southbound lane. At the same time, a 2003 Freightliner box truck operated by Scott Rice, 60, of Waldoboro, was heading south. Despite Mr. Rice’s attempt to swerve and avoid the collision, the two vehicles struck head-on.
The force of the impact caused both vehicles to ignite almost immediately. Tragically, Mr. Colson suffered extensive injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Mr. Rice managed to escape from his truck and was transported by emergency responders to Maine Medical Center in Portland. His injuries are described as serious but not life-threatening.
The crash is being investigated by Deputy Alex Faith of the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office. Members of the Sheriff’s Office crash reconstruction team are working to determine the exact cause of the collision, including whether speed, fatigue, or other factors played a role.
The scene required a significant multi-agency response. Woolwich Fire/Rescue, Wiscasset Fire Department, West Bath Fire/Rescue, Bath Police Department, Topsham Police Department, and the Maine State Police Commercial Vehicle Unit all assisted with firefighting, medical care, traffic control, and investigative support.
Due to the severity of the crash and cleanup efforts, U.S. Route 1 was shut down for approximately four hours, reopening to the public around 8:30 a.m. Motorists in the area experienced significant delays during the morning commute as crews worked to clear the wreckage.
This incident has left the community shaken, particularly in Rockland and Waldoboro, where both drivers are from. Authorities have formally identified the deceased as Alex C. Colson, and extended condolences are being shared with his family and loved ones.
The investigation remains active, and further updates may be provided by the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office as more information becomes available.
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