Matt Ortt Companies partners, operators of food and beverage services in Ocean Pines, today formally announced Ralph DeAngelus’ "divestment and removal" from the company. 

Statement from Matt Ortt Companies:

“In the weeks and months following the devastating and sudden loss of Gavin Knupp, the partnership team strongly considered removing Mr. DeAngelus from the company. However, what prevented the move to this point was the partners’ belief that it was vitally important to be patient and allow the investigative process to independently move forward before deciding Mr. DeAngelus’ future. We were hoping to better understand all of the facts, and each person’s role on the night of the accident, with investigative certainty. There is no question that process is as important as outcome.

“While it had been everyone’s collective hope the criminal justice process would move much more quickly, unfortunately, this has not been the case. Furthermore, it appears the investigation remains open with no indication given as to when that process may be completed. As a result, Matt Ortt Companies’ partners decided to wait no longer and moved forward with Mr. DeAngelus’ divestment and removal. Additionally, both Kearston (Frey) and her son, Tyler (Mailloux), are no longer affiliated with the company in any way.

“Regarding the ongoing investigation, Matt Ortt Companies reiterated that the organization has been, and will remain, transparent and responsive to any and all requests made by those investigating the incident. Matt Ortt Companies strongly emphasized that none of the remaining partners, or their families, were involved in, have any information about, or would shield anyone involved in this case. To say otherwise is simply not true.

"The entire organization expresses its heartfelt sorrow for the Knupp family and all who have been impacted by this terrible tragedy.”