LISBON – The helmet a young motorcyclist was wearing likely saved him from serious head and facial injuries when his bike struck a deer, killing it early Friday night.

Lisbon police Sgt. Scott Stewart said Eric Marquis, 17, of Bowdoinham Road was riding his motorcycle south on Webster Road when a deer ran across his path.

Marquis was thrown to the ground. The force of the impact cracked his helmet and wore down the side of his face shield, police said.

He suffered some road rash, and was taken to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston by ambulance. No information on his condition was released due to his age.

The deer carcass was claimed by a family member.

Damage to Marquis’ 2001 Buell bike was estimated at $1,000 in the 6:21 p.m. accident, which was investigated by reserve officer Thomas Stanton Sr.