Authorities Search For 2 People Swept Off In Monday’s Storm Waters

Rescue crews in Oxford County are searching for two of the four occupants of a vehicle that encountered flood waters during Monday's storm.

Maine Public Safety Spokesperson, Shannon Moss, says the vehicle was traveling along Route 2 in Mexico (Maine) when they tried to cross into Rumford using the Red Bridge. When they encountered water, the driver attempted to turn around, but the waters were too strong, and the vehicle was swept into the Swift River.

"Three occupants were able to get out of the vehicle. Two of those occupants were rescued. The third along with the fourth occupant that was still in the vehicle are currently missing.   The two rescued individuals were transported to Rumford Hospital where they were treated for hypothermia."

Several area safety agencies, including the Maine State Police, the Maine Warden's Service, and the local police departments are working together to locate the missing people.

Authorities have closed numerous roads across the state for flooding, fallen trees/power lines, or road washouts. Moss says it's important to take those closures seriously, and not to try to go around them.

"Mexico and the surrounding area have multiple road closures with some residential areas being closed off completely.  Boats are being utilized to aid residents who are trapped and in need of assistance.  A shelter has been set up at the Mountain Valley High School at 799 Hancock Street in Rumford. "

Meanwhile, in the city of Augusta, the Police Chief has issued a warning to folks in that area that the Kennebec River in Augusta could crest to +25 feet due to rain and snow melt. Out of caution, several roads in the city have been closed.

"As a result, the City has also closed the following locations: Calumet Bridge, Water Street, Bond Street, Lower Northern Avenue, Front Street Parking Lot, Colonial Theater Lot, Eagles Lot, Mill Park, as well as ALL other city-owned or maintained property along the Kennebec River shoreline until water levels recede and become safe again. Vehicles that are not moved may be towed at the owner's expense. "

Stay safe out there.