Vermont police sergeant charged in cyclist's death while watching YouTube

Vermont police sergeant Kyle Kapitanski faces felony charges for grossly negligent operation resulting in death after he allegedly struck cyclist Sean Hayes while watching a YouTube video and speeding. The incident occurred on November 11, 2024, with Kapitanski reportedly driving 5 mph over the limit when he hit Hayes, who was pushing a bike with no reflective gear. Body camera footage shows Kapitanski changing the video to a dispatch application shortly after the crash, and court documents indicate that he concealed his YouTube usage post-collision. An autopsy confirmed Hayes died from blunt force trauma to the head, and the crash has sparked significant legal scrutiny. Kapitanski's attorney argues that the prosecution cannot conclusively prove gross negligence due to the circumstances surrounding the crash. He is scheduled to appear in court on March 13 to face the charges.