Two Suspects Arrested in Fatal Vermont Assault

Mark Ray, 54, died in November from injuries sustained in August attack at Newmont Slate Quarry.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Vermont State Police have arrested two men in connection with an assault that left a 54-year-old West Pawlet resident dead. Richard Mattison, 42, of Poultney, Vermont, has been charged with first-degree murder, assault, and robbery, while Stephen Williams, 38, of Granville, New York, faces assault and robbery charges and is expected to be extradited to Vermont.

Why it matters

Violent crimes like this assault that resulted in a fatality are deeply concerning for the small West Pawlet community. The arrests of the two suspects may provide some closure for the victim's family and address public safety concerns in the area.

The details

According to authorities, the assault that led to Mark Ray's death occurred on August 24 at the Newmont Slate Quarry in West Pawlet. Ray died from his injuries on November 12. Vermont State Police arrested Mattison on Wednesday, while New York State Police apprehended Williams last week. Both men face serious charges related to the attack.

  • The assault that led to Mark Ray's death occurred on August 24, 2025.
  • Ray died from his injuries on November 12, 2025.
  • Vermont State Police arrested Richard Mattison on February 18, 2026.
  • New York State Police arrested Stephen Williams last week.

The players

Mark Ray

A 54-year-old resident of West Pawlet, Vermont, who died from injuries sustained in an assault.

Richard Mattison

A 42-year-old man from Poultney, Vermont, who has been charged with first-degree murder, assault, and robbery in connection with the attack that killed Mark Ray.

Stephen Williams

A 38-year-old man from Granville, New York, who faces assault and robbery charges and is expected to be extradited to Vermont.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Thursday whether to grant bail for Richard Mattison, who is being held without bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to address violent crimes and ensure public safety in Vermont communities.