Driver In Fatal Amish Crash Won't Be Charged

HELENA - The driver of a car that killed a 6-year-old Amish boy Monday afternoon will not be ticketed, state police said.

Michael T. Guldan, 53, of 176 E. Hatfield St., Massena, was driving about 3:45 p.m. on county Route 37 when his car struck the boy, Bennie J. Byler, as he was crossing the road from his family's home to their barn, police said.

Mr. Guldan tried to avoid the boy, who was struck by the passenger side of the car. Mr. Guldan wasn't speeding at the time of the accident, troopers said.

St. Lawrence County Coroner June H. Wood said the boy's death was ruled accidental, caused by massive internal injuries.

Mr. Guldan said Monday that he was going to visit with the boy's family.

"I'm heading over to offer my condolences to the family," he said, before declining further comment.

The accident occurred about 500 feet from the border with Franklin County, in front of the Byler residence at 2575 county Route 37.

The road was closed for several hours.