Lighthouse Walkway Collapse Injures Eleven During Maine’s Annual Lighthouse Day
In a startling turn of events over the weekend, eleven individuals sustained injuries when a walkway leading to a lighthouse unexpectedly gave way. The incident occurred during Maine’s beloved annual event, encouraging people to explore the state’s iconic lighthouses.
Eyewitness Alex Hill recounted the frightening moment: “Just heard a terribly loud cracking, and then [a] collapsing sound, and then some screams, and everyone knew immediately what had happened.”
The unfortunate incident unfolded at Doubling Point Lighthouse in Arrowsic around 1 p.m. on Saturday, coinciding with Maine Open Lighthouse Day when the public is invited to tour these maritime structures.
Of the eleven injured individuals, five required hospitalization, as confirmed by Bath Fire Department Deputy Chief Chris Cummings. The collapse transpired at low tide, causing some victims to fall approximately eight to ten feet, ultimately landing on a rocky mudflat below. Responding to the scene, numerous public safety departments united in a coordinated effort.
“It was a team effort,” noted Cummings, whose department operates a few miles from the site.
Regrettably, the lighthouse now stands closed until further notice, as reported by FOX 23. Karen McLean, a member of the Friends of Doubling Point Light, expressed the group’s intention to restore the lighthouse. However, a specific timeframe for the restoration remains uncertain.
Doubling Point Light, established in 1899, serves as a vital navigational aid along the Kennebec River, warning mariners of two perilous double bends on the northwest end of Arrowsic Island. Despite the incident, Doubling Point Light continues to function as an active navigational beacon, with its flashing white light visible every four seconds for a remarkable nine nautical miles, according to information provided by the Friends of Doubling Point Light website.