Newark – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a single vehicle fatal crash that claimed the life of a man early this morning.

The preliminary investigation determined the crash occurred at approximately 3:58 a.m., Sunday, September 10, 2017 as the driver of a 2008 Mercedes E350 was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of SR 1 from the area of DE Rt. 72. The vehicle drifted into the grass median and continued in a northerly direction until it struck a cement wall where SR 1 crosses over SR 273.  The Mercedes rebounded a short distance off of the wall and came to a stop in the median.  The vehicle subsequently caught fire and was extinguished by rescue personnel.

The driver who was not wearing his seatbelt and sustained serious injuries and was transported to Christiana Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing their investigation into this incident. The victim’s name is being withheld pending the notification of next of kin. It is unknown if alcohol or drug use on the part of the victim was a factor in the crash.

The left lane of DE Rt. 1 southbound was closed for approximately one hour while the crash was investigated and cleared.

**Traffic Advisory** – Troopers Investigating Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash-Newark

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1800 842-8461).  You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@delaware.gov. 

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Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

Released: 091017 0741

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