Vermont State Police say a fatal snowmobile accident occurred on February 15, 2026, at approximately 3:12 PM on VAST Trail 513 in Stannard. The incident involved 62-year-old Kevin Smith from Chester, Connecticut, who lost control of his snowmobile while traveling west.
According to police reports, Smith drifted off the north side of the trail and collided with a stump, resulting in the snowmobile tipping over and ejecting him into nearby trees. Despite attempts to administer life-saving measures, Smith sustained fatal injuries. Authorities noted that neither speed nor alcohol appeared to be contributing factors in the accident. The investigation was supported by local emergency services, including Hardwick Rescue and the Hardwick and Greensboro fire departments.
No court action is anticipated in connection with this incident, as the circumstances are being treated as an accident. The ongoing investigation may evolve, and updates will follow as necessary.
The Vermont fatal snowmobile situation continues to develop.
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Source: Vermont State Police
About this report AI-assisted
Source: Vermont State Police ↗
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