Subaru Driver Charged With Causing $45,000 of Damage to Slopes and RFID Lift Gates at Sunday River, ME

On Sunday, March 9, Oxford County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a significant incident of aggravated criminal mischief at Sunday River ski area in Newry, Maine.

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Upon arrival, deputies noticed extensive damage to the ski slopes behind the South Ridge Lodge, with large deep ruts caused by a vehicle that also crashed into RFID lift gates before fleeing the scene. The estimated damage exceeded $45,000.

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Deputies collaborated with Sunday River Security to identify the suspect and locate the vehicle involved—a dark-colored 2022 Subaru Impreza found at the suspect’s residence in Mexico, Maine. The car showed extensive body damage.

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Despite initial challenges in apprehending the suspect, Jesse Bates, 33, was arrested on March 12, 2025, at his residence without incident. Bates was charged with aggravated criminal mischief and violation of conditions of release and is currently being held at the Oxford County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing, with the sheriff’s office seeking additional information from the public.