Vermont Police Sergeant Charged in Fatal Cycling Accident Was Reportedly Watching Anti-Trans Video Before Crash
A police sergeant in Shelburne, Vermont is facing serious criminal charges following a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a cyclist. Kyle Kapitanski, 41, has been charged with gross negligent operation with death resulting from a fatal crash. The charges stem from an incident that occurred late last year where Kapitanski’s police cruiser struck and killed 38-year-old Sean Hayes. New details emerging from court documents and investigative reports paint a disturbing picture of the circumstances leading up to the collision.
According to reports from NBC 5 and VT Digger, Kapitanski was allegedly watching YouTube videos on his department-issued iPad at the time of the crash. The revelation has ignited controversy and intensified scrutiny of the case. The specific video Kapitanski was reportedly watching has also become a focal point, as it was identified as content produced by Matt Walsh, a figure widely recognized for his anti-transgender rhetoric.
The video in question, titled "Trans woman CONFRONTING Matt Walsh takes UNEXPECTED turn," was reportedly playing on the iPad just before the collision occurred. While court documents indicate that there was "no evidence of user interaction" with the video during a critical 11-minute window, the mere presence of the video playing in the background raises serious questions about Kapitanski’s attention and focus while on duty.
The discovery that Kapitanski was watching YouTube videos while operating his police cruiser was reportedly made possible through bodycam footage. Although the bodycam did not capture the actual crash itself, it reportedly recorded the activity inside the cruiser, confirming that Kapitanski was watching YouTube videos in the moments leading up to the fatal collision. The bodycam footage has not been released to the public.
The tragic incident occurred on November 14, 2024. According to reports, Sean Hayes had dismounted his bicycle and was standing near the curb when he was struck by Kapitanski’s vehicle. Hayes suffered severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy report revealed that the cause of death was “blunt force trauma to the head.”
Adding to the gravity of the situation, reports indicate that Kapitanski was allegedly driving five miles over the speed limit at the time of the incident. This, combined with the distraction of watching YouTube videos, paints a picture of recklessness and negligence that ultimately resulted in the loss of a life.
The fact that the video Kapitanski was reportedly watching was produced by Matt Walsh has further fueled the controversy surrounding the case. Matt Walsh is a controversial figure known for his outspoken views on transgender issues. His rhetoric has been widely criticized as being harmful and discriminatory. The fact that a police officer, entrusted with the safety and well-being of the community, was reportedly watching such content while on duty has raised serious questions about his judgment and potential biases.
Walsh has described himself as a "theocratic fascist" in his bio on X, a social media platform. While he sometimes downplays this as a joke, his views and rhetoric have been widely condemned as hateful and discriminatory. Critics argue that such views have no place in law enforcement, where impartiality and fairness are paramount.
Kapitanski’s attorney, David Sleigh, is challenging the felony charge against his client. Sleigh is arguing that the lack of interaction with the YouTube video during the critical 11-minute window is important evidence. He claims that the officer’s IT department found no evidence of any interaction with the computer during that time.
Sleigh maintains that Kapitanski was only driving slightly above the speed limit and that the presence of the video playing in the background does not necessarily equate to negligence. He has not yet responded to requests for comment.
The case has sparked outrage and calls for accountability. Many are questioning whether Kapitanski’s actions were simply negligent or if they were influenced by his potential biases or prejudices. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what other information may come to light.
The tragic death of Sean Hayes serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of distracted driving. It also raises important questions about the role of technology in law enforcement and the need for officers to maintain focus and professionalism at all times. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for Kapitanski, the Shelburne Police Department, and the community as a whole. It will also contribute to the ongoing conversation about accountability and responsibility in law enforcement.
The case continues to develop, and further updates are expected as the legal proceedings unfold. The community awaits answers and justice for Sean Hayes, and for the need for assurance that those sworn to protect and serve are held to the highest standards of conduct and responsibility.
