Trail Collision In Franklin Sends Snowmobilers From Pembroke and Boscawen For Medical Treatment

FRANKLIN, NH — A Valentine’s Day snowmobile outing ended in a multi-sled collision on Saturday afternoon, leaving two operators with minor injuries and their machines heavily damaged.

At approximately 2:30 p.m., New Hampshire Fish and Game conservation officers were alerted to a crash within the Franklin Falls Flood Control Area. The incident occurred on Corridor 11, roughly one mile north of Route 3A.

According to authorities, a group of three snowmobiles was traveling northbound. The lead rider, Sean Nelson, 42, of Pembroke, veered off the groomed trail into fresh snow as the group transitioned from a wooded area into an open field. The second rider, Christopher Bourque, 48, of Boscawen, followed suit, traveling parallel to the main path. The collision occurred when Nelson attempted to steer back toward the trail and crossed paths with Bourque.

The impact caused both snowmobiles to overturn, pinning one operator beneath the wreckage.

The remote location required a coordinated effort between officials and the public:

Passing riders acted quickly to free the pinned operator and provided initial first aid.

Because of the terrain, Franklin Fire Department personnel were shuttled to the scene by civilian snowmobilers. Both Nelson and Bourque were eventually transported back to Route 3A.

While both snowmobiles were deemed total losses, the operators escaped with only minor injuries. They were met at the roadway by friends for transport to medical facilities and to coordinate the recovery of the inoperable sleds.

Safety Reminder: New Hampshire Fish and Game urges all winter enthusiasts to ride responsibly and emphasizes the importance of staying on marked, groomed trails to avoid hazards.