NORTH BERWICK, ME (THECOUNT) — Aiden Keefe, a senior at Noble High School, was identified as the driver who died Thursday afternoon after his pickup truck collided with the Amtrak Downeaster in North Berwick, Maine, school and police officials confirmed.
Keefe was alone in the vehicle when the crash occurred and was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the cause of the crash.
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North Berwick Police Chief Stephen Peasley said the railroad crossing gates were functioning properly at the time of the collision. Investigators reported that Keefe appeared to be turning right onto Elm Street (Route 4) from Buffum Road when his pickup struck the train. The railroad tracks cross Elm Street diagonally near the intersection with Buffum Road.
School officials announced Keefe’s death in a letter sent to parents Thursday. “Our hearts go out to Aiden’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, and we extend our deepest condolences,” Principal AJ Dufort wrote. “Aiden was a valued member of the Noble school community, and he will be deeply missed.”
Dufort confirmed that Noble High School remained open Friday and that counselors were available to support students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Keefe, who also played football for Noble High School, was remembered by the local community for his work ethic and friendly nature. Riverside Farm Stand & Greenhouse, where he worked during the 2024 season, posted on social media that Keefe was “polite, funny and a hard worker.”
The Amtrak Downeaster, which operates along the route connecting Boston and Portland, Maine, was not reported to have any injuries among passengers or crew. Officials have not confirmed whether train operations were delayed or disrupted following the incident.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Police and state transportation officials are expected to review the scene and vehicle data as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Keefe’s passing adds to a series of serious vehicle-related incidents involving trains in Maine and across the United States, highlighting concerns about safety at railroad crossings and intersections.
Family, classmates, and community members have been left mourning the loss of the teenager, while school leaders and public safety officials urge drivers to exercise caution near train crossings and adhere to all warning signals and road signs.
No additional details were released by authorities as of Friday evening.
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