Charges filed in connection to fatal crash in Pownal

POWNAL — A 36-year-old man from Massachusetts is facing charges after a fatal crash in Pownal back in August.

On August 14, a motorcycle crashed into a UTV on US Route 7.

Kyle D. Thayer, 36, of Clarksburg, MA, was driving the UTV south in the breakdown lane of US Route 7.

Police say Thayer attempted to make a left turn onto Mason Hill Road by crossing U.S. Route 7.

When he entered the southbound lane, he was struck in the driver’s side door by Todd L. Rhinemiller, 48, of Adams, MA, who was headed south on US Route 7.

Police say both vehicles continued off the east side of the road where Rhinemiller was ejected over a guardrail.

During the investigation, it was found that Thayer displayed signs of alcohol impairment.

Rhinemiller was flown to Albany Medical Center in New York, where he succumbed to injuries.

Thayer was transported to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center before ultimately being flown to Albany Medical Center.

Yesterday, Thayer was formally arrested and processed for DUI with death resulting and negligent operation with death resulting.

He was released with conditions and ordered to appear in court today.