Libby man denies vehicular homicide charge

Richard Davidson, the man allegedly responsible for a two-vehicle crash in Lincoln County that left Troy woman Laura Cooper dead, pleaded not guilty to negligent homicide or the alternative vehicular homicide while under the influence, in court on Monday.

The defense requested a jury trial.

Davidson, 26, was one of the drivers in a two-vehicle crash earlier this month on Montana 56 west of Libby that killed Cooper, 45, and injured two juveniles traveling with Cooper.

Inside Davidson’s vehicle, a package consistent in appearance with drug paraphernalia was allegedly found. The substance inside the package later tested positive for meth, according to court records.

Ambulance personnel stated that Davidson had allegedly admitted to them that he had used amphetamines that morning.

Confidential informants and street-level informants reportedly told detectives in the past that they have bought dangerous drugs from Davidson, specifically methamphetamine.

If convicted, Davidson will face up to 35 years in prison and $100,000 in fines.

His omnibus is scheduled for May 8 at 1:30 p.m.