Shaftsbury man accused of driving into his friend denies manslaughter charge

A Shaftsbury man is facing a charge of involuntary manslaughter for allegedly losing control of his vehicle in his friend’s driveway, striking and killing him. Arthur Coons, 67, pleaded not guilty earlier this month to the felony charge and was released on conditions, including that he keep the court informed of his address and phone number. Vermont State Police issued Coons a citation into court for the arraignment on the charge in late October following an investigation into the May 31 death of 39-year-old Philip Mecik of Dorset outside his Mecik’s home. “It’s horrific because they were best friends,” Matthew Hart, Coons’ attorney, said this week. “We look forward to getting an explanation, if we can, as to why this accident happened,” Hart added. “It was definitely not an intentional act.” Bennington County Deputy State’s Attorney Jared Bianchi, reached this week, declined to comment. Detective Sgt.

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