A 76-year-old Newcastle man died Saturday when the 2002 Yamaha motorcycle he was driving south on North Newcastle Road in Newcastle apparently drifted off the shoulder and collided with a tree stump. Lincoln County Communications Center received a 911 call at 5:04 p.m. reporting the crash.

Deputies then found the crash near box 300. Thomas B. Atticks died in the crash. Investigators do not believe speed or alcohol were factors in the crash. Atticks was wearing a helmet.

Deputy Andrew Miner is leading the investigation. Sgt. Jared Mitkus assisted at the scene. Deputy Brian Carlton of Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office is reconstructing the crash. 

Also assisting at the scene were Newcastle Fire Department, Central Lincoln County Ambulance and Maine State Police.The roadway was closed until 6:55 p.m. while the crash was investigated.