POWNAL — A 23-year-old motorcyclist was critically injured after crashing into a tree Thursday evening.
The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office responded to 796 Elmwood Rd at approximately 7:43 p.m. on May 29 for a reported motorcycle crash.
Investigators determined Joseph Vallee, of Poland, was traveling northbound on Elmwood Road at a high rate of speed on his 2008 Kawasaki Ninja.
Vallee attempted to pass another vehicle on a blind corner over a hill before losing control and striking a tree.
He sustained critical injuries and was transported to Maine Medical Center by Freeport Fire Department ambulance.
Authorities said speed and reckless driving appeared to be contributing factors in the crash.
Vallee was wearing a helmet at the time.
The Freeport Fire Department, Pownal Fire Department and Gorham Police Department Crash Reconstruction Unit assisted at the scene.
Elmwood Road was closed for about three hours during the investigation.
The crash remains under investigation by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office.
