8-Year-Old Maine Girl Killed After Being Struck by Ambulance

A northern Maine community is mourning after an 8-year-old girl was killed in a tragic accident involving an ambulance Wednesday afternoon.

Maine State Police say the crash happened just after 4 p.m. on Main Street near Kennedy Terrace in Van Buren. According to investigators, the child was attempting to cross the street when she was struck by an ambulance operated by the Van Buren Ambulance Service.

First responders on board the vehicle immediately stopped and began rendering aid. Despite their efforts, police say the girl suffered critical injuries and later died at the scene. Authorities confirmed she lived nearby.

According to the press release, officials noted that the ambulance was not responding to an emergency call at the time of the crash. Investigators also said speed does not appear to have played a role.

The incident remains under investigation as police work to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragedy. No further details about the victim have been released.

The small town of Van Buren, located along the St. John River in Aroostook County, has been left shaken by the sudden loss. Local officials say counseling and support services are being made available to those affected.

Police have not said whether charges will be filed in connection with the crash. Additional information is expected to be released once the investigation is complete.