BOLTON, Vt. —
A wrong-way driver was cited following a three-vehicle crash on I-89 that killed a 21-year-old cosmetology student on Wednesday.
Timothy Wooster, 45, of Jericho, was charged with grossly negligent operation with death resulting after he collided head-on with Hailey Westcot, 21, of Northfield, who died at the scene, according to Vermont State Police.
Authorities said Wooster was traveling north when he crossed the median into the southbound lanes, striking Westcot’s vehicle. A southbound tractor-trailer, unable to stop in time, collided with the rear of Westcot’s car, causing it to roll over. The tractor-trailer driver was not injured and has not been charged.
Wooster was transported to the University of Vermont Medical Center with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Court proceedings are set for January, with potential additional charges as the investigation continues.
Traffic on I-89 was significantly delayed for several hours during cleanup efforts. Westcot was a student at O’Brien’s Aveda Institute in Williston, described by classmates as passionate and deeply loved.
Classes were canceled Thursday, and a memorial was established in her honor. Further coverage will be available tonight at 4 p.m. on NBC5.