STATE OF VERMONT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
VERMONT STATE POLICE
NEWS RELEASE
MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH
CASE#: 24A4009702
RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Rodzel
STATION: St. Johnsbury Barracks
CONTACT#: 802-222-4680
DATE/TIME: 12/18/2024
STREET: Interstate 91 South
TOWN: Newbury
INTERSTATE MILE MARKER: 109.4
WEATHER: Cloudy
ROAD CONDITIONS: Black top, wet
VEHICLE #1
OPERATOR: Pratikumar Patel
AGE: 23
SEAT BELT? N
CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Elmhurst, NY
VEHICLE YEAR: 2024
VEHICLE MAKE: Toyota
VEHICLE MODEL: Highlander
DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #1: Totaled
INJURIES: Suspected Serious
HOSPITAL: Cottage Hospital, Woodsville, NH
PASSENGER: Devang Prajapati
AGE: 23
SEAT BELT? N
CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Enfield, NH
PASSENGER: Yogeshkumar Patel
AGE: 28
SEAT BELTS? N
CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Woodsville, NH
SUMMARY OF CRASH:
On December 18, 2024, at approximately 2121 hours, Troopers from the St. Johnsbury Barracks responded to a reported single vehicle crash on Interstate 91 S MM109.4. Troopers determined that a 2024 Toyota Highlander exited the east side of the roadway and entered the median, where it struck two trees. The Toyota came to a point of uncontrolled rest after sustaining catastrophic front-end damage.
The operator was identified as Pratikumar Patel (23). Patel was transported to Cottage Hospital for the treatment of suspected serious injuries. Troopers determined alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash. Patel was cited for negligent operation and reckless endangerment; additional charges are pending. This crash remains under investigation.
Vermont Civil Violation Complaint ______Pending________ T23 VSA ___Pending____
LODGED - LOCATION: N/A
BAIL: N/A
MUG SHOT: N/A
COURT ACTION: Y
COURT: Orange County Criminal Court
COURT DATE/TIME: 2/19/2025 at 0830 hours
*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.
