2nd UPDATE – Media Release – UPDATE*
The Office of Chief Medical Examiner has completed their review of this case. The OCME has ruled the cause of Sarah McCarthy’s death as “drowning with hypothermia” and the manner of death was determined to be “accidental.” The results of toxicology testing showed that Ms. McCarthy had a 0.21% BAC level along with the presence of marijuana and amphetamines in her system.
McCarthy was reported missing by her parents in the early morning hours of February 15th and her disappearance was investigated by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office. In the afternoon hours of February 16th a passer-by spotted a vehicle submerged in the Ossipee River in Parsonsfield. Once the vehicle was pulled out of the river, the occupant inside was identified as Sarah McCarthy. Law enforcement officers from the York County Sheriff’s Office conducted the crash investigation. Questions surrounding the crash should be directed to the YCSO.
Both agencies continue to extend their condolences to McCarthy’s friends and family as they continue to cope with her death and process the new information surrounding this tragedy. The agencies also wish to thank Sarah’s family, friends, and those members of the community who offered tips, information, and volunteered to search for Sarah following her disappearance.
*UPDATE - Media Release – UPDATE*
On today’s date at approximately 1255hrs, a passer-by driving along Elm Street and Federal Road (Rte 25) in Parsonsfield spotted a vehicle submerged in the Ossipee River. Emergency crews immediately responded and were able to pull the car from the river. The vehicle was occupied by a lone female and has since been confirmed to be our missing person, SARAH McCARTHY. Unfortunately, McCARTHY is deceased.
Evidence at the scene suggested that McCarthy was traveling westbound on Federal Road (toward New
Hampshire) at a high rate of speed. She failed to navigate a turn in the road and her vehicle careened off a
snowbank and into the river.
Law enforcement will work with the Office of Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause and manner of
Sarah’s death. In the meantime, the circumstances leading up to Sarah’s death remain under investigation by
members of the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office and York County Sheriff’s Office.
The public safety community wishes to express its condolences to Sarah’s family and friends as they deal this
this tragic situation. The CCSO also wishes to thank members of the public for their numerous tips in trying
to find Sarah, along with the driver who spotted the car in the river and notified police.
Released by:
Captain Don Foss
Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office
(207) 774- 1444 ext 2112