Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly head-on crash that occurred Wednesday afternoon on Route 69 as 66-year-old Peter Williams of Searsmont.

According to the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office, Williams was killed when his vehicle crossed into the path of an oncoming tractor trailer. The impact also claimed the life of Williams’ dog, who was traveling with him at the time.

Deputies said video evidence revealed Williams’ car veered into the opposite lane just before the crash. Despite efforts to avoid the collision, the tractor trailer was struck and forced off the road, where it crashed into a garage, causing major structural damage. The truck driver was evaluated at the scene but did not require hospitalization.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with authorities considering possibilities such as distraction, fatigue, or a medical emergency. Route 69 was closed for several hours as crews cleared the wreckage and assessed the property damage.

Community members in Searsmont and Newburgh are mourning the loss of Williams, remembering him as a familiar face in the area. His passing, along with that of his dog, has left many deeply saddened.