Kingston man arraigned on vehicular manslaughter charge in December crash

KINGSTON, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- A Kingston man has been arraigned after he was involved in a fatal crash in the town of Hyde Park. Richard Rider, 46, was charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving while ability impaired by the combined influence of drugs. According to the Dutchess County District Attorney's Office, the crash took place on or about December 14, 2025 on Albany Post Road in the area of Huyler Drive. Officials said Rider was driving north when he failed to maintain his lane and crashed into a Honda Accord traveling south. The driver of the Honda was identified as 28-year-old Alijah Johnson. He was pronounce dead at the scene. Prosecutors said Rider's blood revealed the presence of Clonazepam, Diazepam, Nordiazepam, THC, and Methadone. Police said this was Rider's sixth arrest for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. His license has since been suspended. “The loss of a young life under these circumstances is both heartbreaking and preventable. Driving while impaired, whether by alcohol, prescription medications, illegal drugs, or any combination thereof endangers every person on our roadways," District Attorney Anthony Parisi said. "We will continue to pursue accountability in cases where impaired driving results in death. Our thoughts remain with Mr. Johnson’s family and loved ones as this case moves forward through the judicial process.” Rider was sent to the Dutchess County Jail. Bail was set at $750,000, $1.5 million bond, and $3 million partially secured bond. He is schedule to reappear in court on March 30.