PARIS — A 14-year-old boy died Wednesday evening when his ATV struck the back of another stopped in front of him on the side of Elm Hill Road, police Chief David Verrier said.

Albert C. Roberti Jr., 14, of Elm Hill Road, died at the scene, Verrier said.

The accident occurred before 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Roberti and another 14-year-old were riding Honda three-wheelers on the side of Elm Hill Road north toward West Paris, Verrier said. Roberti’s friend slowed for a horse he believed was going to cross their path. Roberti didn’t stop and hit the other ATV. The collision threw Roberti to the ground, Verrier said.

Paramedics from PACE pronounced Roberti dead at the scene.

The other boy was taken to Stephens Memorial Hospital where he was treated and released, Verrier said.

Roberti was a freshman at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School. Principal Ted Moccia said he and his staff will address students Thursday in an attempt to help them cope with the tragedy.

“That’s our first and foremost concern,” Moccia said.

Roberti’s Facebook wall was filling up Wednesday night with laments from friends and classmates. Words of sorrow from his friends shared space on Facebook with photos of four-wheelers, snowmobiles, stock cars and motorcycles.

“You were always a good friend,” wrote Morgan Brown, a teenager from Norway, “and one of the funniest people I knew. You’ll be missed.”

“I just can’t believe (you’re) gone,” wrote Nina Lobozzo, a classmate. “You can’t be gone. I know (you’re) not. (You’re) still here. Just in our hearts. I swear, I will never forget you.”

“I guess we’ll be going to the races in the sky someday,” wrote Tom Anthony, also a student at Oxford Hills. “Love ya, man.”

On Wednesday night, Maine State Police were reconstructing the accident.

On Aug. 30, 2006, Roberti was critically injured when the ATV he was driving crossed Elm Hill Road in front of his home and was struck by a pickup truck. He was 9 years old at the time.

treaves@sunjournal.com