BURKE, Vt. — A 21-year-old passenger died late Friday night following a rollover crash on Mountain Road, according to state police.
Troopers responded to the single-vehicle accident near Sherburne Lodge Road at 10:53 p.m. to find a totaled Tesla S.
The car was reportedly traveling east on Mountain Drive when it veered off the road, struck several trees, and overturned. The passenger, identified as Whit Steen of Lyndon, was ejected from the vehicle after not wearing a seatbelt. He was airlifted to the University of Vermont Medical Center with life-threatening injuries and later succumbed, authorities said.
The driver, Luke Dudas, also 21 and from Lyndon, sustained suspected minor injuries and was transported to Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. He is facing charges, including DUI death resulting and gross negligent operation with death resulting, as well as providing false information to law enforcement. Dudas was released from the hospital and is being held on $5,000 bail at the Northeast Regional Correctional Facility.
According to police, alcohol and speed are believed to be factors in the incident. Dudas is scheduled to appear in Caledonia County Superior Court on Monday. It remains unclear if he has secured legal representation.
Authorities have requested that anyone with information regarding the crash contact state police at 802-748-3111 or submit anonymous tips via text by sending “VTIPS” to 274637 (CRIMES).