Victim of Sanbornton ATV accident identified

SANBORNTON — The person who died in an ATV accident on Knox Mountain Road Sunday has been identified as 25-year-old Joseph Fowler by officers of New Hampshire Fish and Game.

According to information from NH Fish and Game officers, Fowler was driving a four-wheeler. A call to 911 was place around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday by someone passing by. Sanbornton police and fire responded to the scene, along with NH Fish and Game officers.

Fowler was pronounced dead on the scene and transported to a local funeral home.

The incident is still under investigation, and there were no witnesses.

NH Fish and Game Sgt. Alex Lopashanski said it's likely Fowler went into the shoulder and collided with the embankment. A toxicology report is pending. Results can take up to 90 days.

Conservation Officer Christopher Brison said Fowler was driving home from a birthday party at a friend’s house a few miles from home.

NH Fish and Game officers respond to accidents regarding off-highway recreation vehicles and snowmobiles. Because the accident was on a dirt road maintained by the town, Sanbornton police responded as well.

Brison also said off-highway recreation vehicles are not permitted on public roads.

In a press release about the accident, NH Fish and Game officers reminded riders to stay safe.

“New Hampshire Fish and Game would like to remind riders that accidents do happen, even to experienced riders and when they do it is important to protect yourself by wearing a helmet and other safety gear.”

It is unknown whether or not Fowler was wearing a helmet.