Donald L. Ulmer of Little Meadows, Pa. appeared at Town of Owego Court on Tuesday morning, Dec. 15 with the Honorable Patrick Hogan presiding. Donald L. Ulmer was charged on Nov. 10 with 3rd degree Aggravated Unlicensed Operation following a fatal accident on Nov. 9, which occurred in the area of 3550 Pennsylvania Ave. in the Town of Owego.
According to the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office investigation dated Nov. 9, 2015, a Taylor Recycling truck and pedestrian were struck by a southbound vehicle operated by Donald L. Ulmer, age 72, of Little Meadows, Pa.
The Taylor Recycling employee was identified as Sean R. Tilghman, age 27, of Endicott, N.Y. Tilghman was pronounced dead at the scene by Tioga County Coroner Bob Williams.
Justice Hogan advised Donald L. Ulmer of his right to counsel at the court and any subsequent court dates. When asked by Justice Hogan if he could afford his own attorney, Donald L. Ulmer replied no. Donald L. Ulmer was then given information by the court clerk on how to complete an application for counsel. Justice Hogan stated to Donald L. Ulmer that he had until Dec. 29 to complete the required paperwork.
Justice Hogan concluded by stating that consideration was given to Donald L. Ulmer because he showed up at the hearing, and also since he has lived at the same address for 20 years that he will show up for future hearings. Justice Hogan stated that he was releasing Donald L. Ulmer on his own recognizance and advised the defendant to show up for every court appearance.
This is not the first time Donald L. Ulmer was involved in a fatal accident.
According to the New York State Police, Troop C – Sidney, as reported on the website, nyspews.com, the New York State Police at Owego responded to the scene of a car / motorcycle serious personal injury motor vehicle accident on Aug. 17, 2014.
The investigation revealed that Donald L. Ulmer, then age 71, of Little Meadows, Pa. was traveling west in a 1997 Buick sedan and turned left (south) onto Pennsylvania Avenue in front of a 2006 Yamaha motorcycle operated by Auburn D. Lyons, age 43, of South Gibson, Pa. According to the report, Lyons was traveling east on State Route 434 approaching the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue. Lyons was pronounced deceased by the Tioga County Coroner Stewart Bennett.
Janet Watson, wife of Auburn Lyons, attended the Dec. 15 hearing held at the Town of Owego Court. Regarding the hearing, Watson shared, “[Donald L.] Ulmer should not have been driving without a license.”
It is unknown at this writing when Donald L. Ulmer’s next court appearance will take place.
