DSP News Release:  Milford Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash 

Location: 

• SR 1 Coastal Highway S/B at SR 30 Wilkins Road S/O Milford, DE

DATE and TIME:

• Tuesday July 26, 2011 9:27 p.m.

Operator(s) and Vehicle Information:

• Mark E. Coverdale-38 Milford, De
• 1995 Kawasaki Z7L motorcycle

• Stephanie G. McDonough-68 Milford, De
• 2008 Lexus ES350

Victim(s):

• Mark E. Coverdale-38 Milford, De

Resume:

Milford-Tuesday July 26, 2011 Delaware State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit investigated a fatal crash at the intersection of SR 1 southbound and SR 30 approximately ¼ mile S/O Milford Delaware. 

The crash occurred around 9:27 p.m. and involved a 1995 Kawasaki Z7L motorcycle and a 2008 Lexus ES350 passenger vehicle.  The motorcycle was driven by Mark E. Coverdale-38 of Milford, who was traveling southbound on SR 1 Coastal Highway. 

The Lexus was driven by Stephanie G. McDonough-68, also of Milford who was facing westbound in the crossover between the north and southbound lanes of SR 1 attempting to proceed onto Wilkins Road SR 30. 

The intersection is controlled by a flashing red light and posted stop signs for east and westbound traffic.  The north and southbound traffic at the intersection have the right-of-way with a flashing yellow light. 

The Lexus pulled westbound across the southbound lanes of SR 1 in front of the motorcycle, resulting in the motorcycle striking the right rear of the Lexus.  As a result of the collision Coverdale was ejected from his motorcycle. 

Coverdale was pronounced deceased at the scene from injures sustained in the crash.  Coverdale was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. 

McDonough along with her 8 year old granddaughter were transported to Milford Memorial Hospital by ambulance.  McDonough was treated and released for unspecified injuries.  The 8 year old passenger was eventually flown to A.I. DuPont Children’s Hospital in serious however stable condition.  The 8 year old passenger was properly restrained in a booster seat. 

A preliminary Delaware State Police crash investigation suggests that speed to have been a factor in the collision on the part of the motorcyclist.  Alcohol involvement is currently unknown for the motorcyclist and is not a factor in regards to McDonough.  Delaware State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit is continuing to investigate the crash and ask anyone with information regarding this investigation to contact investigators at 302-644-5020 attn: CRU investigators.