Maine EMS investigates ambulance crew's treatment of injured skier

AUGUSTA, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- A formal investigation into an ambulance crews treatment of an injured skier, who later died, is being done at the request of the skier's widow.

Dana Morse said in newspaper article the ambulance crew that treated her husband David did not provide him with proper care and left her on the side of the road en route to the hospital. She then forwarded her concerns to Maine Emergency Medical Services which is now investigating her claims.

The head of Maine EMS has spent the past couple of weeks reviewing Dana Morse's claims and now he's heading up a formal investigation into the actions of that North Star ambulance crew. By conducting a formal investigation Maine EMS can subpoena records and witnesses. The agency is being assisted in the probe by a detective from the Maine Attorney General's Office.

"It's our number one priority. This is a really serious concern. The folks who are involved in this are really troubled by the concerns that have been expressed", said Jay Bradshaw, Director of Maine EMS.

Findings from the investigation will be turned over the state Board of EMS. If there is evidence of improper actions the board could impose sanctions against the ambulance company or individual crew members. They range from issuing a letter of guidance to licenses being modified, suspended or revoked.

North Star ambulance is run by Franklin Community Health Network. Officials there are also investigating the allegations.

NEWS CENTER