WARREN — Atlantic Highway (Route 1) was closed starting just after 3:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5, following a one-vehicle crash near the entrance to Route 90, in Warren.

Tyler Robinson, 25, of Thomaston, was the driver of a green 2003 Chevy pickup heading north on Atlantic Highway. According to a Knox County Sheriff’s Deputy Reggie Walker, Robinson nodded off at the wheel just after starting down the hill toward the Route 90 intersection.

The pickup crossed the centerline into the southbound lane, went through a snowbank and struck a utility pole. The pole snapped, landing on the roof of the truck, and leaving a dent.

Robinson was trapped in the vehicle for approximately half an hour until the power could be shut off. Yet, despite the impact of the crash, and despite the snapping of the 45-foot pole onto the roof, Robinson walked away, “without a scratch on him,” said Walker.

After Robinson was given the all-clear to exit the cab, a Central Maine Power linesman stood in the truck’s bed and cut the pole in half using a power saw. 

Atlantic Highway was completely blocked and first responders are still on scene assisting with rerouting traffic as utility crews work to replace the pole.

Deputy Elwell is currently investigating the crash and believes fatigue to be a factor in the crash. 

KCSO were assisted by Warren Fire and EMS and Central Maine Power.

Oyster River Towing took the pickup away before heading to their next call. The Warren Fire Department was scheduled to have their annual holiday potluck dinner this evening. They attended the crash instead.

This article will be updated as more information becomes available.

Reach Sarah Thompson at news@penbaypilot.com