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.
