VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B3002949

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Detective Trooper Nicholas Grimes                      

STATION: Shaftsbury Barracks                    

CONTACT#: (802) 442-5421

 

DATE/TIME: May 31st, 2026, at 1734 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Dorset, VT

VIOLATION: Manslaughter - T13 VSA 2304

 

ACCUSED: Arthur G. Coons                                             

AGE: 67

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Shaftsbury, VT

 

VICTIM: Philip Mecik

AGE: 39

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Dorset, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

On May 31st, 2026, Troopers and Detectives from the Vermont State Police were notified of a motor vehicle crash that occurred in the driveway of a residence located in Dorset, VT.  Investigation revealed that Arthur Coons, age 67, of Shaftsbury, VT, was operating his vehicle in the driveway, when he accelerated and struck Philip Mecik, age 39, of Dorset, VT, and the residence with his vehicle.  Philip was pronounced deceased on scene.  Probable cause was developed to charge Arthur with Manslaughter for operating his vehicle recklessly and with negligence. 

 

On October 15th, 2026, Arthur voluntarily turned himself in to the VSP - Shaftsbury Barracks for processing.  Arthur was issued a criminal citation to appear in Vermont Superior Court - Bennington Criminal Division on November 2nd, 2026, at 0830 hours.  Arthur was released on his own recognizance.

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: November 2nd, 2026, at 0830 hours           

COURT: Vermont Superior Court - Bennington Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A   

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: Yes

 

*Please note: court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.