82-year-old man struck and killed by tractor-trailer in downtown Farmington

FARMINGTON, Maine (WMTW) – Police say a Maine man has died after being struck by a tractor-trailer in Farmington.

Robert Leso, 82, of Chesterville, was identified as the victim of Monday morning’s crash near the U.S. Post Office at 196 Main St.

Police said the driver of the tractor-trailer was driving north on Main Street around 10:30 a.m. when he stopped for a pedestrian who was already in the crosswalk.

According to police, the driver drove off after seeing that there were no other pedestrians in the crosswalk. At the same time, Leso approached from the passenger side of the tractor-trailer and walked along the front of the truck, apparently out of sight of the driver.

Police say Leso was knocked to the ground and run over by the tractor-trailer’s front tire. Witnesses saw what happened and signaled the driver to stop the truck.

The driver and witnesses rushed to help and revive Leso, police said, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said there is no evidence of driver error, based on their review of traffic camera footage and statements they collected from several witnesses.

The crash remains under investigation, but officials said they do not expect any charges will be filed in connection with the crash. The Maine State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit responded to the scene of the accident because the tractor-trailer involved in the crash was a commercial vehicle.

“As a result of this incident, Police Chief Kenneth Charles would like to emphasize the need for cooperation between motorists and pedestrians,” Farmington police said in a statement. “Please slow down, be patient, be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions. Both pedestrians and motorists should always have eye-to-eye contact before proceeding.”

Police said traffic was rerouted around the crash area for about four hours while investigators examined the crash scene and crews worked to clear that section of Main Street.