Mason Man Dies in Early Morning Snowmobile Crash — 37-Year-Old Dejay Ducharme Identified as Victim
MASON, N.H. — A tragic accident early Sunday morning has claimed the life of a local man after his snowmobile veered off the trail and struck a tree in the town of Mason. Authorities have confirmed that 37-year-old Dejay Ducharme, a resident of Mason, was killed in the crash, which occurred just after 2:00 a.m. along Old County Road, a rural stretch often used for recreational snowmobiling.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s Conservation Officers responded to an emergency call at approximately 2:14 a.m., reporting a serious snowmobile crash near 472 Old County Road. The caller stated that an adult male had suffered a severe crash and that CPR was in progress at the scene.
Details of the Crash
Preliminary investigations indicate that Ducharme was riding a snowmobile alone when, for reasons not yet fully determined, the machine left the trail and collided with a tree along the roadside. Officials say the impact was significant, and despite life-saving efforts initiated by bystanders and continued by first responders, Ducharme was pronounced dead at the scene.
Conservation Officers noted that conditions during the early morning hours were cold and that snowmobile use, though unusual in June, is possible in higher elevations and remote areas where late-season snowfall or trail grooming may have preserved riding conditions. Local sources suggest that Ducharme was an experienced rider, which has added an additional layer of sorrow and confusion to the loss.
Investigation Underway
The crash remains under investigation by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, which routinely oversees snowmobile safety and enforcement in the state. Authorities are working to determine contributing factors, including speed, visibility, terrain, mechanical issues, or potential impairment.
Although no other vehicles or individuals were involved, officers are appealing to anyone who may have seen Ducharme riding earlier in the night or who may have knowledge of the circumstances leading up to the crash to come forward.
Community Reacts to Sudden Loss
News of Dejay Ducharme’s death has sent a wave of grief through the tight-knit Mason community, where he was known for his friendly demeanor and passion for outdoor recreation. Friends and neighbors described him as someone who loved nature, motorsports, and spending time in the woods of New Hampshire.
“He was a great guy — always had a smile on his face and a tool in his hand,” said one longtime friend. “We’re all just heartbroken. He was taken too soon.”
Social media has been filled with tributes and condolences from those who knew him, many expressing disbelief that such a tragedy could happen in what they consider a familiar and well-traveled area.
A Reminder of Snowmobile Safety
While snowmobile accidents are more commonly reported during winter months, this tragedy serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with recreational vehicle use, especially during off-peak seasons when trail conditions may be unpredictable.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department advises riders to always:
- Wear proper safety gear, including a helmet
- Stay on marked trails
- Avoid riding alone when possible
- Monitor weather and trail conditions
- Avoid excessive speed and operate responsibly
As the investigation continues, Ducharme’s family is being supported by local community members, and arrangements for memorial services are expected to be announced in the coming days.
In Memory of Dejay Ducharme
Beloved friend, avid outdoorsman, and member of the Mason community.
May he rest in peace, and may his tragic passing remind us all to ride safely and look out for one another on the trails.
