Driver in distress Williams’ fatal crash pleads guilty to reduced charges
Ryan Kosswho was the driver in the traffic accident that resulted in his death Treat Williamshas pleaded guilty to a reduced charge.
Koss, 35, pleaded guilty to negligent driving causing death in Bennington, Vermont on Friday, March 8, according to the Associated press. The charge, which is a misdemeanor, will result in Koss’ driver’s license being revoked for one year. He must also complete a community restorative justice program.
According to the outlet, Koss spoke with Williams’ family during the emotional hearing. (Williams is survived by his wife Pam Van Sant and their children, Gill Williams and Elinor “Ellie” Williams.)
“I am here to apologize and take responsibility for this tragic accident,” he told the court.
Remembering a friend. Celebrities paid tribute to Treat Williams following the actor’s shocking death in a motorcycle accident. “This is a tough call, and I don’t like doing this on social media, but I want to share what an absolute treasure Treat Williams was – both as an actor and as a person,” Matt Bomer began. […]
Gill, 32, accepted Koss’ apology on behalf of their family. Gill said they did not want to press charges against Koss or send him to jail. However, he did address Koss directly.
“I forgive you, and I hope you forgive yourself,” Gill told Koss. “I really wish you hadn’t killed my father. I really had to say that.”
Williams died in June 2023 at the age of 71 after being involved in a motorcycle accident. Williams representative, Barry McPhersonconfirmed the Everwood star’s death, telling We weekly that Williams was cut off by a car.
“I’m just devastated. He was the nicest man. He was so talented,” McPherson said in a statement at the time. ‘He was an actor. Filmmakers loved him. He has been the heart of Hollywood since the late 1970s. He was very proud of his performance this year. He is so happy with the work I have given him. He has had a balanced career.”
Ellie paid tribute to her father shortly after news broke of the actor’s unexpected death.
“This is a pain I have never felt before. I’m absolutely devastated,” she captioned a throwback photo of her and Williams uploaded via her Instagram Story at the time. “Thank you to everyone who sent messages and held our family in your hearts during this terrible heartbreak.”
Two months later, Koss was charged with gross negligence causing death as a result of the crash. According to Vermont State Police, Koss was driving a Honda Element SUV that veered into the path of Williams’ motorcycle. Koss, who considered himself a friend of the actor, voluntarily met with authorities and released a statement shortly afterwards.
“I am devastated by the tragic passing of Mr. Williams,” Koss said in his statement. “I have known Treat for years, both as a member of this close-knit community and as a fellow theater maker. I considered him a friend. I know his family feels his sudden loss even more deeply than I do, and I offer them my sincere condolences.”