BENNINGTON, VERMONT: The Vermont driver, who was involved in a fatal car crash that killed actor Treat Williams, has entered a plea to the charge.
According to the reports of the Associated Press, Ryan Koss, has decided to plead not guilty to his role in the June crash during his Monday arraignment, September 25, at the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court in Bennington.
The driver can face up to 15 years behind bars, if convicted. The review of the accident involving a motorcycle and a single car was completed by the Bennington County State's Attorney's office last month.
As per a press release from the Vermont State Police, Koss was charged with "grossly negligent operation with death".
How did Treat Williams die?
Williams tragically breathed his last at the age of 71, just hours after he was involved in a motorcycle accident in Vermont. He suffered life threatning injuries from the crash before being airlifted to Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York, where he was pronounced dead.
"He was killed this afternoon. He was making a left or a right [and] a car cut him off," Williams' agent Barry McPherson told People on June 15. "I'm just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented," McPherson added.
"He was an actor's actor. Filmmakers loved him. He's been the heart of the Hollywood since the late 1970s," he continued, adding "He was really proud of his performance this year. He's been so happy with the work that I got him. He's had a balanced career."
What did the authorities say about Treat Williams' death?
In a news release shared with the outlet in August, the Vermont State Police confirmed that the Medical Examiner’s Office in New York determined the actor's cause of demise as "severe trauma and blood loss."
The accused eventually spoke out about the incident, saying he was "devastated by Mr Williams’ tragic passing."
What did Ryan Koss say after the accident?
"I have known Treat for years, both as a member of this tight-knit community and fellow theater maker. I considered him a friend," he said, according to the Manchester Journal.
"I know his family feels his sudden loss even more deeply than I do, and I offer my sincerest condolences to them," he added.
The Everwood' actor is survived by his wife of 35 years, Pam Van Sant, and their children Gill Williams and Elinor “Ellie” Williams.
