Wallkill Man Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run in Saugerties
A 24-year-old Wallkill man has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash in Saugerties on July 16.
According to New York State Police, Chase Godwin was arrested on a felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death. The incident occurred on Route 212 at approximately 8:53 p.m.
Authorities reported that Scott E. Richter, 51, was riding a 2004 Kawasaki motorcycle westbound on Route 212 when he attempted to turn left onto King’s Highway with a green turn arrow. A 2013 Honda traveling eastbound reportedly ran a red light and collided with Richter’s motorcycle. Richter was thrown from his bike into the roadway, while the Honda continued east into the Village of Saugerties without stopping.
Richter sustained serious injuries and was transported to HealthAlliance Hospital in Kingston, where he later died on July 24.
Following the investigation, State Police identified Godwin as the driver of the Honda. He reported to the State Police Kingston barracks on August 7 and was charged accordingly. Godwin has been arraigned in Kingston City Court and released on his own recognizance.
He is scheduled to appear in Saugerties Town Court at 3 p.m. on August 26. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been provided regarding lane closures or towing.