Nashua driver dies in Sandwich ATV rollover

A 47-year-old Nashua driver died in an all-terrain vehicle rollover Sunday night in Sandwich.

According to police, the ATV flipped and roll on top of the driver during the accident.

Sandwich police and fire were notified of the rollover when a 911 call came in at 7:08 p.m. on Sept. 21. Tamworth firefighters and deputies from the Carroll County Sheriff’s Department also responded, and New Hampshire Fish and Game officers arrived about a half hour later.

“It looks like he was going up a steep incline and [it] rolled back onto him,” Morse said. “He was out with a friend, who was the passenger, and she was able to jump off and wasn’t injured.”

The operator was evaluated by responders at the scene, who found he died from a serious injury.

Morse said the female passenger made the 911 call. The victim was not wearing a helmet or any safety equipment.

Authorities will not know if speed or impairment were a factor until the toxicology report is completed, which could take months.

The name of the deceased has not yet been released as officers will first notify the victim’s next of kin.

Also on Sunday night, at 10:30 p.m. NH Fish and Game officers were notified of an injury during a utility terrain vehicle accident in Alton. According to a press release from Fish and Game, Charles Hooper Jr., 39, of Wolfeboro, was driving on private property when he lost control and flipped.

Three passengers were thrown as a result, with one sustaining minor injuries who was transported for treatment to Huggins Hospital in Wolfeboro. None of the occupants were wearing safety equipment, and officers say speed and reckless operation appear to be the contributing factors.

Both accidents are under investigation by NH Fish and Game officers, who remind riders to be safe when riding any off-highway recreational vehicles, as even experienced drivers can have accidents.

“It is important to be cautious when riding, especially at night, and be sure to wear a helmet and use safety equipment” Morse said. “Also, know the area’s terrain and your capabilities.”