By Molly Lovell

Staff Writer

Two people were killed in an accident on the Maine Turnpike in Ogunquit April 28 when their vehicle was struck by an SUV traveling in the wrong direction. Passenger, 15-year-old Cooper Campbell of Scarborough and driver, 65-year-old James McLaughlin of Gorham died at the scene said Steve McCausland, Maine Department of Public Safety spokesman.

Also in the car was 48-year-old Steven Campbell, who was injured and taken to Maine Medical Center in Portland with non-life threatening injuries. 

McCausland said McLaughlin was driving a 2001 Lincoln Town Car owned by Maine Limousine Services of Portland and was transporting the Campbells from Logan Airport in Boston to their home in Scarborough when the accident occurred.

McCausland said at about 11 p.m. Donna Bartlett, 38, of Wells, was spotted by a state trooper swerving and traveling south in the northbound lanes. He said the trooper attempted, unsuccessfully, to get her attention.

“Alcohol is strongly suspected,” McCausland said.

Bartlett was taken to Maine Medical Center and treated for a broken ankle. McCausland said a decision on charges will be made after the investigation is complete. He said the investigation should take about 30 days, after which it will be given to the York County District Attorney’s Office.

According to the Bureau of Highway Safety 49 people have died on Maine roads this year compared to 44 at this time last year.

Cooper Campbell was a freshman at Cheverus High School in Portland. Principal Bill Burke described him as “outgoing” and “athletic.”

He said counseling services were available to students and a prayer service was hosted for both Cheverus and Scarborough High School students where Cooper Campbell had many friends.

Cathy Cooper, who has been speaking for the family, did not return several phone calls seeking comment as of press time.

Contact Molly Lovell at 282-4337 ext. 219 or email news@scarboroughleader.com.