The community of Paris, Maine, is mourning the loss of Zackery May, a 21-year-old local resident who died following a motorcycle accident on Tuesday afternoon, May 5, 2026.
Details of the Accident
The fatal crash occurred in Oxford County and involved a single motorcycle and a pickup truck.
Location: The incident took place on Elm Hill Road in Paris.
Timeline: Emergency responders were called to the scene at approximately 12:15 p.m. on Tuesday.
The Sequence: According to the Paris Police Department, Zackery was operating his motorcycle heading south when he lost control of the bike. The motorcycle crossed the center line and struck a pickup truck that was traveling in the opposite direction (northbound).
Outcome: Paris Police Chief Michael Ward confirmed that Zackery died at the scene from his injuries. The driver of the pickup truck was not reported to have sustained serious physical injuries.
Investigation Findings
While the investigation remains active, authorities have shared preliminary factors that may have contributed to the tragedy:
Contributing Factors: Investigators believe that speed and driver inexperience played a role in the loss of control.
Reconstruction: The Oxford County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a full crash reconstruction to finalize the details of the event. Local departments from Windham and Norway also assisted at the scene.
Remembering Zackery May
Zackery, known to many in the Paris and Oxford Hills area, is being remembered as a young man with a kind soul and a passion for the outdoors.
Community Reaction: Tributes have begun to pour in from friends and neighbors, describing him as a hardworking individual who was well-liked by his peers.
Legacy: Those who knew him have shared that he had a deep love for his family and a spirit of adventure that defined his personality.
Services and Support
Arrangements: Official funeral arrangements and a celebration of life are currently being organized by his family. Details are expected to be shared with the community in the coming days.
Support: Members of the local community have reached out to offer support to the May family during this sudden and difficult time.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Zackery May as they navigate this profound loss.
