CONCORD TOWNSHIP — A 21-year-old man was killed early Sunday after a single-vehicle crash on Kennebec River Road.

About 1 a.m., Sam White, of Embden, was traveling south on Route 16 when he “failed to negotiate a curve,” according to a news release from the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office. White’s gray 2000 GMC Sierra crossed the center line, rolled over and landed in a ditch on its roof.

White, the lone occupant, was declared dead at the scene. Speed and alcohol are possible factors, the release states.

More than 30 friends and family members gathered Sunday afternoon at the home of Bonnie and Sam White Jr. of Embden, White’s parents.

When the crash occurred, White was returning from a remembrance service for a close friend who died last week, Bonnie said.

White, a 2008 graduate of Carrabec High School, was known for his participation in competitive weightlifting. At his prime, White could bench press 500 pounds, Bonnie said.

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“I always called him ‘my gentle giant,'” she recalled.

Bonnie said her son was hardworking and helpful as an employee for his father’s business — Sam White Jr. Excavation — and a good father to his son, Jonathan White, who is nearly 1 year old.

White’s brother, Zachary White, 19, said he was very close with his older sibling.

“He was my best friend,” Zachary said. “I idolized him. He was my hero. He was strong as an ox, but he had a heart made of gold.”

Zachary said his brother developed a reputation in Embden as a hard worker, and was often hired for odd jobs such as cutting firewood or delivering gravel.

“Whatever he could do, he’d do it,” he said.

About 70 friends and family members were expected to visit the home by the end of the day Sunday, Zachary said.

“It’s rough right now, but more family keeps coming,” he said. “That’s all we can expect right now is we’ll keep coming together. It’s not the reason we’d want to come together, but it shows how tight we are.”

Bonnie said service arrangements for White are still developing. The crash is still under investigation.


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