PUTNEY, VT (MyKeeneNow) An Alstead, New Hampshire man has been sentenced in connection with a 2025 crash that killed a pedestrian and injured another in southern Vermont, according to court records.

Jason Ball, 25, pleaded guilty on April 14 in Windham Superior Court to one count of driving under the influence of drugs resulting in death. The conviction stems from a crash last May on Main Street (Vermont Route 5) in Putney.

Authorities say Ball was driving a 2016 Jeep Cherokee northbound when he crossed the center line, traveled through the southbound lane, mounted a sidewalk, and struck two pedestrians. One of the victims, 78-year-old Diane Clementine of Putney, died from injuries caused by blunt force trauma to her head, torso, and extremities.

A second pedestrian, Deborah Bozetarnik, 68, also of Putney, suffered minor injuries in the crash but later reported ongoing emotional and psychological impacts, according to information submitted to the court.

As part of his plea, Ball admitted he was under the influence of drugs at the time of the crash and that his impaired driving directly caused Clementine’s death. Toxicology results showed the presence of cocaine, fentanyl, and related substances in his system.

Ball had initially pleaded not guilty to earlier charges, which included DUI resulting in injury. The charge was later amended to DUI resulting in death following Clementine’s passing weeks after the crash.

Under the terms of the sentence (imposed April 14), Ball received a term of six to 10 years, with all but four years suspended. He is also expected to remain on probation for several years following his release.

In statements submitted to the court prior to sentencing, Clementine’s daughter, Michelle Houghton, acknowledged that while Ball may not have intended to cause harm, his actions led to devastating consequences. She expressed hope that he would use the experience as an opportunity for change.

The case dates back to a high-profile incident that prompted early legal proceedings, including Ball being held without bail as prosecutors pursued more serious charges after Clementine’s death.