Fundraiser Planned to Support Family of Fatal Albion, Maine Hit & Run

A heartbreaking situation is unfolding in the small town of Albion after a tragic hit-and-run crash Friday evening claimed the life of a child and left two others badly hurt.

According to Maine State Police, the crash happened on Hussey Hill Road when three pedestrians, including two children and a 33-year-old woman, were hit by a car. Sadly, one of the children did not survive. The woman, identified as Mollie Egold, was airlifted to the hospital and is now in stable condition. The other child remains in critical condition.

Officials say the driver didn’t stay at the scene. After an investigation, police identified the vehicle as a white 2016 Hyundai Veloster.

The driver, 44-year-old Benjamin Lancaster of Albion, has since been arrested and is facing multiple serious charges, including operating under the influence resulting in death and serious injury, as well as leaving the scene of a fatal crash. He is currently being held at the Kennebec County Jail.

While this tragedy has shaken the community, folks in Albion are stepping up in a big way.

According to WGME 13, the Albion Christian Church is hosting a community spaghetti supper this Saturday to raise money for the family. The event aims to ease the burden of travel, medical bills, and other unexpected expenses during this incredibly difficult time.

She told the news station, “This is going to support the family so they don't have to worry about the little things — gas, hotels, meals — while they focus on healing,” said Julie Mackenzie, a deaconess at the church.

Mackenzie says the outpouring of support has been overwhelming already. “Food is pretty much covered. Donations are coming in. People are stepping up from all over the state,” she said to WGME.

The fundraiser will take place Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Albion Christian Church. Everyone is welcome, and every little bit helps.