The Maine Dept. of Public Safety issued the following statement concerning the tragic death of Hancock County Sheriff’s Deputy Luke Gross:

On Thursday, September 23, 2021, at approximately 4:30 a.m., Hancock County Sheriff’s Deputy Luke Gross was called to the scene of a crash on Route 3 in Trenton near the Ellsworth town line. 

The driver of the crashed vehicle fled the scene prior to Deputy Gross’ arrival.  Deputy Gross parked his cruiser in the westbound breakdown lane with his emergency lights activated to investigate the crash.  Deputy Gross exited his vehicle wearing a high visibility traffic vest and was picking up debris from the road when at approximately 5:15 a.m. he was struck from behind by a small pick-up truck. 

Deputy Gross, who was 44-years-old, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The operator of the pick-up truck has been fully cooperating with the investigation.  No charges are expected to be filed at this time.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Deputy Gross and the men and women of the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office as they navigate this unexpected and difficult loss.