RUPERT, Vt. (WCAX) – A 33-year-old Vermont man has pleaded not guilty following a fatal UTV crash in Rupert on October 6, 2023.
Ellsworth Reed, of West Pawlet, faces charges including DUI with death resulting. He appeared in court on October 9.
According to State Police, the incident occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Suncrest Road when Reed was operating a UTV with four passengers.
The vehicle rolled into an embankment and struck several trees. Authorities confirmed that Reed’s brother, 39-year-old David McGuire of Maine, died at the scene.
A 13-year-old passenger was airlifted to Albany Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. A 15-year-old passenger was injured but has since been released from the hospital.
Tammy Bice, 43, of West Pawlet, remains hospitalized with severe injuries.
Police reported that all passengers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. The investigation is ongoing.
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