A Vermont man charged in connection with the fatal crash that claimed the life of actor Treat Williams has pleaded not guilty, formally launching the legal process in the high-profile case. Ryan Koss, 35, faces a charge of gross negligent operation resulting in death, which carries a possible sentence of up to 15 years in prison if he is convicted.
The deadly collision occurred on June 12 in the town of Dorset. Vermont State Police say Koss was driving a Honda SUV and attempting to make a left turn into a parking area when his vehicle crossed into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. The motorcycle was being operated by Williams, who was unable to avoid the impact.
Williams, 71, a longtime resident of Manchester Center, was critically injured in the crash and later died at Albany Medical Center in New York. News of his death prompted widespread mourning among fans and colleagues who remembered him for a prolific career spanning decades in film and television.
Koss’s not guilty plea signals the start of court proceedings, during which prosecutors and defense attorneys will examine the circumstances surrounding the crash. As the case moves forward, the Vermont community continues to grieve the loss of Williams while awaiting the outcome of the judicial process.