BIDDEFORD, Maine — A truck driver from West Virginia is being credited with helping police rescue a fugitive who was struck while running across the Maine Turnpike.

The incident occurred around 8:30 PM on Sunday, September 28th, near mile marker 32 in Biddeford.

Mistaken for a Deer

Michael Kilmer, 68, was driving his truck northbound when he believed he had hit a deer. After reviewing dashcam footage, he realized it was a person who had darted into the road.

Kilmer immediately alerted authorities. Portland Police coordinated with Maine State Police, who soon located 39-year-old Jared Felling of Ellsworth in a marshy area near the exit. He had severe injuries to his legs and head and was suffering from early hypothermia.

Fugitive on the Run

According to investigators, Felling was fleeing Biddeford Police when he attempted to cross the highway. He had previously removed his court-mandated ankle monitor, and had a history of offenses, including vehicle theft in Biddeford.

Authorities also noted that the Waldo County Sheriff’s Office had a warrant for his arrest for violating release conditions.

Rescue and Recovery

Troopers administered first aid until emergency responders arrived. Felling was then transported to Maine Medical Center in Portland. Despite his injuries being serious, they were classified as non-life-threatening.

Thanks to Kilmer’s quick thinking and cooperation with police, a potentially deadly hit-and-run situation was averted, and a wanted fugitive was apprehended.