Maine man, 82, fatally struck by tractor-trailer in Farmington

The deadly crash happened near the post office, police say.

The deadly crash happened near the post office, police say.

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The deadly crash happened near the post office, police say.

A Maine man is dead after he was struck by a tractor-trailer in Farmington, according to police.

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 that at about 10:30 a.m., the driver of the tractor-trailer was traveling north on Main Street when he stopped for a pedestrian who was already in the crosswalk.

According to police, the driver began to proceed after he saw there were no other pedestrians in the crosswalk. At the same time, Leso approached from the passenger side of the tractor-trailer and skirted around the front of the truck, apparently out of the driver's view.

Police said Leso was knocked to the ground and run over by the front tire of the tractor-trailer. Witnesses saw what happened and motioned for the driver to stop the truck.

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

Police said there is no indication of an error on the driver's part based on their review of traffic camera footage and statements they gathered from several witnesses.

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

"As a result of this incident, Police Chief Kenneth Charles wants to highlight the need for cooperation between drivers and pedestrians," the Farmington Police Department said in a statement. "Please slow down, be patient, be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions. Pedestrians and motorists alike should always ensure eye to eye contact before proceeding."

Police said traffic was diverted around the area of the crash for approximately four hours while investigators examined the scene and crews worked to clean up that section of Main Street.