COLEBROOK, N.H. — A Thursday afternoon snowmobile crash in northern New Hampshire has claimed the life of a 63-year-old man, according to authorities. The fatal incident happened shortly before 3:30 p.m. on January 9, 2026, along Corridor Trail 5 in the town of Colebrook.
Officials said Bradford Jones, 63, of Alton, New Hampshire, was traveling southbound on the trail when the crash occurred. Investigators reported that Jones was attempting to navigate a left-hand turn when he lost control of his snowmobile. The machine left the trail and struck several trees off to the side, throwing Jones from the snowmobile and causing him to suffer severe injuries.
Jones had been riding with another snowmobiler, who was traveling ahead of him at the time of the crash. Authorities said the riding companion noticed Jones was no longer behind him and turned back to check on his whereabouts. When he returned, he found Jones lying off the trail beside his damaged snowmobile. The companion immediately rendered aid and called 911 for emergency assistance.
A large rescue response was launched to reach the remote crash site. The Colebrook Fire Department, 45th Parallel EMS, and New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers all responded. Due to the location of the crash, Colebrook Fire Department personnel used specialized rescue equipment, including a tracked ATV and an Argo off-road vehicle, to transport first responders approximately one mile along the snowmobile trail to reach Jones.
Once on scene, Colebrook Fire and Rescue personnel, 45th Parallel EMS staff, and a Conservation Officer worked together to provide lifesaving care. Emergency crews attempted to stabilize Jones and continued medical efforts on the side of the trail for about an hour. Despite those extensive efforts, Jones ultimately succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash remains under investigation by Conservation Officers. While the investigation is ongoing, officials said speed relative to the existing trail conditions is being considered a primary factor in the crash. Authorities are reminding snowmobilers to adjust their speed for trail conditions and remain alert at turns and curves. The death of Bradford Jones has left family, friends, and the snowmobiling community mourning another tragic loss on New Hampshire’s winter trails.
