Today, Ryan Koss, the 35-year-old Vermont driver involved in a tragic accident, pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him in connection to the June crash that claimed the life of veteran actor Treat Williams.
Koss, facing a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison if convicted of gross negligent operation with death resulting, continues to deny any wrongdoing in the tragic incident, as outlined in a statement issued in August. According to AP News, the June 12th collision occurred in Dorset, Vermont.
The investigation conducted by the Vermont State Police found that Koss, driving a Honda SUV, was turning left into a parking lot when he collided with Williams' oncoming motorcycle. Unable to avoid the collision, Williams tragically sustained fatal injuries and was later pronounced dead at Albany Medical Center in New York after being transported from the scene of the crash, as detailed by Boston Globe.
Williams was a renowned actor whose career spanned nearly 50 years, starring in the TV series "Everwood" and the movie "Hair," and appearing in over 120 TV and film roles. His memorable contributions to the cinematic world include performances in "The Eagle Has Landed," "Prince of the City," and "Once Upon a Time in America." In what has since become a deeply introspective moment for the tight-knit community, it was revealed by Koss himself, who serves as the managing creative director of the Dorset Theatre Festival in Vermont, that he considered Williams a friend. Williams, 71 at the time of death, was not only a well-regarded actor but also an integral member of the local theatre community and shared strong bonds with the people of Vermont, including Koss, according to USA Today.
In his earlier statement, Koss expressed his devastation over Williams' death, offering his "sincerest condolences" to the actor's family, though maintaining that criminal charges were unwarranted. As the case unfolds and the community mourns the loss of a cherished thespian, reflection on the contributions Treat Williams made to the arts, both locally and worldwide, sets a lasting legacy, one that will not be forgotten in light of these tragic events.
