Winchester man injured, hypothermic after OHRV crash

RICHMOND — A Winchester man was injured and became hypothermic following an off-highway recreational vehicle (OHRV) crash on Eversource NH power-lines in Richmond on Friday. Jonathan Gleason, 34, was operating his trail bike on the power-lines when he attempted to cross a frozen brook that was about three feet deep. The vehicle got stuck under the ice, and Gleason fell off, becoming momentarily trapped under the machine and ice in the brook.

Gleason managed to free himself and call for help. He sustained a shoulder injury and symptoms of hypothermia. Responders from Richmond Fire Department, Winchester Fire Department, and Cheshire County Ambulance were dispatched to the scene.

Gleason had made his way towards Stone Mountain Road in Winchester where he met with rescuers and was subsequently transported to Cheshire Medical Center in Keene for further medical evaluation and treatment. The NH Fish and Game Department identified operator inexperience as the primary contributing factor to the crash. They confirmed that Gleason was wearing a helmet, eye protection, and proper riding gear at the time of the incident.

Officials took this opportunity to remind outdoor enthusiasts to always operate OHRVs within their limits, wear proper head and eye protection, never ride alone, and to ride only in legally designated areas.

For more information about OHRV riding in New Hampshire, individuals can visit the NH Fish and Game website.

The NH Fish and Game Department expressed gratitude to the Richmond Fire Department, Winchester Fire Department, Cheshire County Ambulance, Keene Fire and Mutual Aid Dispatch, and NH State Police Dispatch for their rapid response and aid during the crash.