MSP Arrests Driver Involved in Crash - Troopers Looking to Speak to Witness

On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at approximately 12:00 PM, Troopers responded to a single vehicle crash at the curve of the Exit 45 northbound toll in South Portland. The initial investigation indicates the driver of a tan 2019 Toyota Tacoma crashed his vehicle and then took off on foot with his dog. The driver later identified as 41-year-old Ryan Simpson of Portland ran through the nearby woods and into the Applebee’s parking lot on Maine Mall Road. A Trooper engaged him in the parking lot, but Simpson’s dog got in between him and the Trooper prompting Simpson to take off running across Maine Mall Road towards the mall. Once he reached the intersection of the Turnpike Spur and Maine Mall Road  (next to Jareds) Simpson attempted to make entry into a car that was stopped at a red light. The passenger door was locked, and he could not get inside. The Trooper was then able to effectively deploy his taser and safely immobilize Simpson before taking him into custody without further incident. Simpson was transported to Maine Medical Center in Portland to be evaluated. Once he is released, he will be transported to the Cumberland County Jail. Simpson had two outstanding warrants. He will also be charged with Operating after Suspension, Failure to Submit to Arrest and Detention, Attempted Burglary of a Motor Vehicle and Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident.  The dog was not injured. It was safely taken into custody by a South Portland Animal Control Officer.   

*Troopers are looking to speak to the woman who was driving the vehicle Simpson was attempting to get into. The vehicle is a white station wagon/hatchback, possibly a Toyota. If this was you or someone you know please contact the Augusta Regional Communications Center at 207.624.7076 and ask to speak to Cpl. Doug Cropper.