SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT — A three-vehicle collision occurred on Interstate 89 South just north of Exit 14 on April 8, 2026, at approximately 8:17 a.m.
Vermont State Police Trooper Nathan Handy was conducting a motor vehicle stop when a 2023 Ford F-350 driven by Alex Persitz, 35, of Enosburgh, began changing lanes to the left to yield to the stopped cruiser.
As the F-350 was straddling the dotted white line, a 2009 Pontiac Vibe attempted to slow down but was unable to safely do so.
The Vibe subsequently drove between the F-350 and the stopped police cruiser, resulting in the three vehicles colliding while abreast of each other.
The operator of the Vibe was identified as Emmit Swanson, 19, of Hamburg, N.Y.
Swanson reported to the Williston State Police Field Station on April 9, 2026, where he was issued a criminal citation to appear before the Chittenden Superior Court Criminal Division to answer the charge of negligent operation.
No injuries were reported in the crash.
Weather conditions were clear and the road surface was dry at the time of the crash.
Swanson is scheduled to appear in Chittenden Superior Court Criminal Division on June 6, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.
