Driver Cited After Crash in Pownal

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Vermont State Police are investigating a multi-vehicle crash that occurred on Sunflower Street near Post Road in Pownal, Vermont on April 4, 2026. The incident involved a 2006 Buick LaCrosse driven by 21-year-old Simon Free of Bennington, which struck two parked vehicles - a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan and a 2002 Toyota Tacoma - before leaving the scene. No injuries were reported, but the Buick, Volkswagen, and Toyota all sustained varying degrees of damage. Police later located Free, who was issued citations to appear in court on charges of leaving the scene of an accident and negligent operation.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run crashes can pose a serious public safety risk, even when no injuries occur, as they can lead to unresolved property damage, insurance claims, and a lack of accountability for the driver involved. This incident highlights the importance of responsible driving and remaining at the scene of an accident to cooperate with authorities.

The details

According to the Vermont State Police, the crash occurred around 6:04 p.m. on April 4, 2026 on Sunflower Street near Post Road in Pownal. Simon Free, 21, of Bennington was operating a 2006 Buick LaCrosse when he struck the two parked vehicles - a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan and a 2002 Toyota Tacoma. Free then left the scene before police arrived. The Buick sustained moderate damage, the Volkswagen sustained moderate damage, and the Toyota sustained minor damage. No injuries were reported.

• The crash occurred on April 4, 2026 at approximately 6:04 p.m.
• Free was later located by police and issued citations to appear in court on May 11, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.

What’s next

Free is scheduled to appear in Vermont Superior Court, Bennington Criminal Division, on May 11, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. to answer to charges of leaving the scene of an accident and negligent operation.