ORIGINAL RELEASE:
On July 12, 2015 at approximately 1716 hours, the St. Albans Police Department responded to Lower Newton Road in the vicinity of Brigham Road, for the report of a two car motor vehicle crash with entrapment. Upon arrival, Officer’s observed numerous first responders tending to the operators, and passenger, of both vehicles.
The operator of a 2012 Ford Escape was identified as Leanne Werner, 30, of St. Albans. She was extricated from her vehicle, without serious injury. The operator of the second vehicle, a 2009 Kia Sedona, was identified as Omer Martin, 74, of St. Albans. The wife of Omer, Jane Martin, 73, also of St. Albans was a passenger in his vehicle. Both Martins were extricated from their vehicle, and transported to Northwestern Medical with serious injuries. The St. Albans Police Department later discovered Mr. Martin was transferred to the University of Vermont Medical Center to be treated for his injuries. He was listed in serious, but stable condition.
Initial investigation indicates Werner crossed the double yellow line heading West on Lower Newton Road, causing a head on crash with the vehicle operated by Martin. Werner was arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol as well as grossly negligent operation. Werner was processed at the St. Albans Police Department, and issued a citation to appear at court on July 20, 2015 at 1300 hours.
From Burlington Free Press
An off-duty Burlington police officer, suspended due to drunken driving allegations, is expected to face more serious criminal charges Monday after one of two elderly people she struck died, St. Albans Police said Sunday.
Omer Martin, 74, of St. Albans died at University of Vermont Medical Center on Saturday, Lt. Ron Hoague said in a news release.
“The charges against Leanne Werner are expected to be upgraded at arraignment Monday,” he wrote. The exact nature of the new charges in Vermont Superior Court were unavailable.
Werner was initially ordered to appear in court on charges of DUI and gross negligent operation. Both of those charges could have been felony counts due to the serious nature of the injuries.
Burlington Deputy Police Chief Jannine Wright, the city’s acting chief, said in an email Sunday that her department had been made aware that Martin had died Saturday “as a direct result of the traffic crash” a week ago.
