Title: Vermont Man Accused of Fatal Motorcycle Crash with Actor Treat Williams Pleads Guilty to Negligent Driving
In a courtroom filled with emotion, Ryan Koss of Vermont, the man accused of causing the fatal motorcycle crash that took the life of renowned actor Treat Williams, pleaded guilty on Friday, July 15, to a reduced charge of negligent driving with death resulting. This outcome means that Koss will avoid serving any time in prison.
Judge Kerry Ann McDonald-Cady announced the sentencing, stating that Koss’s probationary period would last for a year. During this time, his driver’s license will be suspended, and he will undergo mental health counseling as well as participate in restorative justice programs. Should Koss fail to comply with these conditions, the judge could impose a sentence of up to two years in prison and fine him $3,000.
The incident occurred on Vermont Route 30 in Dorset back in June of 2023 when Koss’s Honda Element SUV turned into the path of Williams’ motorcycle. As a result, the 71-year-old actor was thrown from his bike, sustaining critical injuries. Despite receiving medical attention at Albany Medical Center in New York, Williams tragically passed away.
Gill Williams, the actor’s son, appeared in court to share his family’s suffering and the challenges they faced since their father’s passing. He revealed that he had been working on a movie for his dad and that they planned to collaborate on this project. “That was my story, and it’s not anymore,” Gill shared with the courtroom.
Speaking about his feelings, Gill acknowledged the anger he had harbored but expressed his desire to forgive and move on: “I’ve spent months now, going through my head of all the things that I could say that would be hurtful. But for me to heal and for my family to heal, I have to become a new person because you hit me that day and you killed me in some way.”
Gill emphasized that Koss had not intended to cause the accident, stating: “You just weren’t looking, and you were negligent and incompetent that day.” He then addressed Koss directly and requested: “I don’t want you to go to prison – we didn’t press charges – it’s very difficult to deal with the fact that there are no real repercussions, but what would it be? Nothing’s going to bring my dad back.”
Ryan Koss then took the stand and offered sincere apologies and condolences to the Williams family, loved ones, fans, and the community. He acknowledged his responsibility for the crash: “I’m here to acknowledge that this accident occurred because I made a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle that collided with my car, and for that, I am truly sorry.”
Treat Williams was a prolific actor best known for his roles in the 1979 musical “Hair,” as well as TV dramas “Blue Bloods” and “Everwood.” His most recent role was in the latest season of Ryan Murphy’s period piece “Feud: Capote vs. The Swans,” currently airing.
