Delaware State Police
News Release

Fleeing Suspect Runs Into Path of Police Vehicle

Released- Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Bear- On Tuesday, June 24th, at approximately 1:46 a.m., Troopers working in a plain clothes capacity, accompanied by Probation and Parole Officers, were in the parking lot of the Salem Church Wawa (located at the corner of Route 40 and Salem Church Road) when they observed a subject, later identified as Matthew Thomas Slavish, 20, of Rue Madora Drive in Bear, handling suspected marijuana in his red Acura Integra. The officers approached the vehicle on foot and identified themselves. Slavish then allegedly sped away at a high rate of speed through the parking lot. The Acura was last seen heading north on Salem Church Road.

Officers began to check the area. A Probation and Parole Officer traveling on Salem Church road observed the red Acura ahead of him lose control, exit the roadway and come to a stop in a wooded area south of Spruce Drive. Officers were not engaged in a vehicle pursuit at this time.

Slavish then exited his vehicle and began to run back southbound on Salem Church Road toward Route 40. The Probation Officer stopped his car and gave chase on foot. He had Slavish in his sights at which time Slavish turned abruptly back across Salem Church Road and into the path of a Trooper operating an unmarked van. It should be noted that the Trooper was actually slowing to a stop when Slavish ran in front of the van.

Slavish was struck by the van and thrown to the ground. Officers immediately rendered first aid and summonsed medical help. Slavish was transported from the scene to Christiana Hospital where he is listed in critical condition.

The probation and parole officer chasing Slavish on foot was also transported to Christiana Hospital where he was treated and released for a hand injury and an abrasion to his leg.

A search of the Acura revealed suspected marijuana. A computer check revealed Slavish was driving on a suspended license. Additionally, investigators are exploring the fact that Slavish may have been driving his vehicle while intoxicated.

This incident remains under investigation.