The Maine Warden Service is urging snowmobilers to operate safely following weekend crashes that killed three and injured four.

Cpl. John MacDonald, spokesman for the Maine Warden Service, said there were likely even more crashes over the course of the weekend, but none to the level of reporting such as the seven released by authorities. Many others involved property damage, but no injury.

Warden Maj. Greg Sanborn said snowmobilers must use good judgment and common sense, never drive beyond the capabilities of the operator or machine, and never drink and drive. MacDonald added the need to pay closer attention to trail conditions given this season's limited snowfall.

Among the deaths was 49-year-old Matthew Divello of Mariaville, whose body was recovered Saturday from Graham Lake.

In Dallas Plantation, 61-year-old Odias Bachelder of Lang Township was killed Saturday afternoon when his snowmobile left the trail and he was ejected. The Maine Warden Service reported Sunday that Bachelder, who was wearing a helmet, died immediately at the scene from apparent blunt force trauma. He and two companions were traveling to Rangeley to observe the snowmobile parade that was part of the weekend's annual Snodeo event.

In Lee, 56-year-old Mark Roux of Lee was killed when he crashed into woods near Big Green Pond shore.

Four other accidents resulted in injuries — three that occurred on Saturday and one Sunday afternoon in Shapleigh.

MacDonald said the multiple weekend's crashes, while tragic, did not actually top any state records. Years past saw as many as four or five fatalities in one weekend. He said one factor leading to so many crashes stemmed from the high number of riders out taking advantage of the recent snowfall.