UPDATE: A serious hit-and-run incident on Main Street in Bennington Saturday night has resulted in multiple felony charges against local resident Richard Coyne Jr., aged 36. The crash, which occurred outside Donovan’s Pub around 11:25 p.m., left a woman severely injured.
Coyne now faces charges including felony aggravated assault, felony grossly negligent vehicle operation causing serious injury, felony leaving the scene of a crash, and driving under the influence (DUI). If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 50 years in prison.
During his arraignment on Monday, July 15, 2023, via video link from the Marble Valley Regional Correctional Facility, Coyne pleaded not guilty. A Rutland Judge released him under strict conditions, prohibiting him from driving, contacting the victim, consuming alcohol, and requiring him to submit to alcohol screenings upon request.
According to a police affidavit, the victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was struck by a silver Chevrolet Silverado with Florida plates that fled the scene. Witnesses described the victim as lying bleeding and disoriented in the roadway. She was rushed to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center for immediate medical attention and later transferred to Albany Medical Center due to serious injuries, including fractures to her pelvis and internal bleeding from her kidney.
Witness accounts reveal a chaotic scene. One bystander recalled hearing loud noise and shouts to call 911 just moments after the victim was hit. Another witness, who was riding a bicycle, described chasing the truck and finding it parked in a nearby Stewart’s parking lot, noting significant front-end damage.
Coyne’s initial response to police was that he had struck a mirror on the passenger side of his vehicle and was “scared,” prompting him to flee. Officers noted a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and observed his bloodshot eyes.
The investigation continues as authorities gather more witness statements and evidence from the scene. No further court dates have been announced as of now, but this case remains under close scrutiny as the community seeks answers following this alarming incident.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
