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Killer Still At Large In Random, Fatal Attack On Maine Christmas Tree Farmer

SCARBOROUGH, Maine (AP) — Maine State Police said the killing of a well-known Christmas tree farmer in the state was a random attack, and the assailant is still at large.

James Pearson, 82, was pronounced dead at Maine Medical Center after the attack in the front yard of his Scarborough home on Sunday. Pearson is also a former teacher and his death shook the community in Scarborough.

The Portland Press Herald reported police were still investigating the attack on Monday. State Police Spokesman Steve McCausland said residents are being asked to "maintain awareness of their surroundings" and to report any unusual activity to police.

Pearson's wife Nancy was home when the attack happened and tried to aid her husband while nearby family members called 911. She and James founded their business 50 years ago.

(© Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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