MASON, N.H. — Community Mourns After Tragic Snowmobile Crash Claims Life of Beloved Resident

MASON, N.H. — Community Mourns After Tragic Snowmobile Crash Claims Life of Beloved Resident

MASON, N.H. — A tragic accident in the early hours of Sunday morning has left the small town of Mason, New Hampshire, grieving the loss of one of its own. Authorities have confirmed that 37-year-old Dejay Ducharme, a longtime Mason resident, was killed after his snowmobile veered off a trail and struck a tree along Old County Road—a quiet, wooded stretch of land often frequented by snowmobilers and outdoor enthusiasts.

According to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, emergency crews responded to the scene shortly after 2:00 a.m. on June 15. Upon arrival, first responders found Ducharme unresponsive and suffering from severe trauma. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Ducharme was operating his snowmobile alone when the accident occurred. Officials believe speed and visibility may have been contributing factors, though the investigation remains ongoing. No foul play is suspected, and authorities have ruled the crash as accidental at this time.

“This is a tragic loss for our community,” said Conservation Officer Lt. Adam Cheney. “Dejay was well known in the area, and this accident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety while enjoying recreational sports, particularly in remote and wooded areas.”

Ducharme was remembered by friends, neighbors, and family members as a warm-hearted and generous individual with a passion for the outdoors. A skilled mechanic and nature lover, he was frequently seen helping neighbors with equipment repairs or riding the local trails he knew so well. Many described him as someone who lived life fully, with a deep appreciation for New Hampshire’s wilderness and small-town spirit.

“He was the kind of guy who would drop everything to help you out,” said one friend. “He loved riding—he was always out there on the trails, and he knew every inch of them. This just doesn’t feel real.”

As word of the accident spread Sunday morning, tributes began pouring in on social media, with community members expressing heartbreak and disbelief over the loss of someone many considered a pillar of the town.

“Dejay wasn’t just a friend—he was like family to so many of us,” one local wrote on Facebook. “It’s going to be hard to imagine winter without seeing him out on his sled, smiling, always waving.”

Mason town officials expressed condolences to the Ducharme family and thanked emergency responders for their swift action. Local leaders also stressed the importance of trail safety and encouraged snowmobilers to travel in groups whenever possible and to avoid high speeds during low-visibility conditions.

The Ducharme family has asked for privacy as they grieve but said they are grateful for the overwhelming support from the community. A memorial ride is reportedly being planned by members of the local snowmobile club in Dejay’s honor, with details to be announced in the coming days.

In a town as close-knit as Mason, Dejay Ducharme’s loss will leave a noticeable void. But through shared memories, acts of kindness, and the trails he loved so dearly, his spirit will continue to ride on in the hearts of all who knew him.