Lemaster Faces Seven Counts in Fort Collins Parade Death Case

A fatal crash during a popular Fort Collins bike parade entered the legal phase on Thursday. Van Edward Lemaster appeared in court for the first time to answer to seven charges related to the incident.

Lemaster, 88, sat beside his attorney and used a headset to hear the proceedings. Judge Daniel McDonald read the list of accusations: one count of vehicular homicide, four counts of vehicular assault, and two counts of reckless endangerment. Lemaster entered a not guilty plea to all seven counts.

The judge outlined the sentencing ranges for each charge. Vehicular homicide carries a prison term of two to six years. That range extends to 12 years if the court finds aggravating circumstances. Lemaster told the court he understood the potential penalties.

The accident happened on Aug. 29 on Mountain Avenue in Old Town Fort Collins. The Tour de Fat bicycle parade was ending when Lemaster backed his Chevrolet Silverado out of a parking spot. He struck another vehicle, then accelerated onto a sidewalk and an outdoor patio. Joshua Douglass died from his injuries. Several other pedestrians were hurt.

An arrest affidavit details Lemaster’s account to a hospital officer. He said he tried to back out multiple times before he “just gunned it” to exit the space. Vehicle data cited by investigators showed the accelerator pedal was fully depressed as the truck moved forward.

Lemaster’s next court appearance is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Dec. 8.