Concord — March 5, 2009 — Chistopher E. Haynes, 36, of Byfield, Mass., died Thursday morning at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon as a result of injuries sustained in a snowmobile accident in Freedom on Sunday. According to New Hampshire Fish and Game, the accident occurred at approximately 3 p.m. on Sunday.

“Haynes had been riding alone on Berry Bay on Lake Ossipee in Freedom,” the release states. “As he approached the shoreline, Haynes’ snowmobile hit a snow embankment and he was thrown from the machine, sustaining serious head injuries. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.”

“Haynes was transported from the scene by ambulance to Huggins Hospital in Wolfeboro, then airlifted by DHART (Dartmouth-Hitchcock Advanced Response Team) helicopter to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center on Sunday evening,” the release continued.

“Emergency personnel responding to the scene included West Ossippee, Freedom and Conway fire departments; Freedom Rescue Service; Med-Star Ambulance; Conway Ambulance; and Madison and Freedom police officers, followed by New Hampshire Fish and Game conservation officers.

This is the third fatal snow machine accident this winter in New Hampshire.

“This tragic incident is a reminder that riders need to use caution, especially in unfamiliar areas,” said Major Tim Acerno, coordinator of Fish and Game’s Off-Highway Recreational Vehicle Safety Program.”Hazards can come up quickly, whether you’re on a trail or a lake.”

“We strongly urge all snowmobilers not to ride alone. Always wear a helmet and dress appropriately for the weather.”

[Editor’s Note: An online memorial site has been established for Christopher Haynes, which can be accessed here].