A Vermont driver accused in a hit-and-run that killed a 37-year-old man has pleaded not guilty.
The Valley News reports 21-year-old James Ribeiro of Springfield entered the plea last week in Windsor Superior Court to felony charges of leaving the scene of a crash with a fatality resulting.
Police allege Ribeiro struck two pedestrians June 9 in Springfield, killing Steven Lapre. Authorities say 31-year-old Pamela Runnells was taken to Springfield Hospital and subsequently airlifted to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center with serious injuries. It's not clear what her current condition is.
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An affidavit says Ribeiro told police the crash happened when he glanced down at his cellphone.
A message left for Ribeiro's attorney wasn't immediately returned.
