Shelburne Police Sergeant Faces Felony Charge in Fatal Crash
In a tragic turn of events, Shelburne police Sergeant Kyle Kapitanski found himself at the center of a legal storm following a fatal crash that claimed the life of cyclist Sean Hayes. The incident, which occurred in 2024 on Shelburne Road in South Burlington, has left a community in mourning and raised questions about the role of distraction in modern policing.
During a recent hearing at Chittenden County Superior criminal court in Burlington, Kapitanski, accompanied by his attorney David Sleigh, vehemently denied the felony charge of grossly negligent operation of a motor vehicle with death resulting. The sergeant is accused of striking and killing Hayes with his cruiser, with investigators alleging that a YouTube video was playing in the vehicle at the time of the crash.
Despite Sleigh’s arguments to dismiss or reduce the charge, Judge David Fenster ruled in favor of the prosecution, allowing the case to proceed. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the legal battle that could potentially see Kapitanski facing up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Family and friends of the victim, Sean Hayes, gathered in the courtroom to seek justice for their loved one. Their presence serves as a poignant reminder of the human toll of this tragedy, with Hayes’ 12-year-old daughter Lola standing alongside her grandparents, Steve and Donna Hayes.
The crux of the case revolves around the alleged distraction caused by the YouTube videos playing in Kapitanski’s cruiser prior to the fatal collision. Deputy State’s Attorney Matthew Dolezal highlighted Vermont’s laws prohibiting the operation of a vehicle with a visible entertainment screen, pointing to this violation as a contributing factor to the crash.
Vermont State Police investigators, who spearheaded the inquiry, reported that Kapitanski’s cruiser was traveling above the speed limit at the time of impact, with the brakes only engaged after a considerable distance post-collision. These findings, coupled with the presence of YouTube videos on a mounted tablet in the vehicle, have added layers of complexity to the case.
A civil lawsuit filed by Hayes’ estate against the town of Shelburne further underscores the far-reaching implications of this incident. Attorney Brooks McArthur, representing the estate, emphasized the need for accountability and closure for the bereaved family and friends of Sean Hayes.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits answers and resolution in a case that has left indelible scars on all involved. The delicate balance between justice and compassion remains at the forefront, underscoring the need for accountability and reflection in the wake of tragedy.
