Speed, alcohol a factor in Auburn crash

AUBURN — A Tuesday evening crash caused a dramatic rollover resulting in charges against one driver and several injuries.

Auburn police and firefighters responded to the crash around 7:26 p.m. at the intersection of Turner and Plummer streets. When crews arrived, they found one vehicle had spun into the Planet Fitness parking lot and the other had landed on its roof farther south on Turner Street.

The black 2006 Volkswagen Jetta on its roof was driven by Mark Martin, 30, of 89 Whipple St., Lewiston.

The vehicle in the parking lot, a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta, was driven by Joshua Collins, 23, of 227 East Ave., Lewiston. With Collins was passenger Jamie Saucier, 23, and nine-month-old Julian Collins.

According to Lt. Laurie Woodhead of the Auburn Police Department, Martin was traveling at an “imprudent” speed southbound on Turner Street when Collins attempted to cross Turner Street from Plummer.

Woodhead said Martin struck Collins on the rear passenger side of the vehicle before rolling over.

Tim and Sue Jordan of Turner said they were behind Martin. They said the vehicle rapidly accelerated after the rotary before striking Collins’ vehicle, sending it into the parking lot before rolling onto its hood.

The Jordans said they rushed to see if the occupants in Collins’ vehicle were all right and called 911 for help. Tim Jordan said the infant seat was placed behind the driver and away from the impact.

The occupants of Collins’ vehicle were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, according to Woodhead.

Martin was charged with operating under the influence and violation of bail conditions.

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