Delaware State Police
News Release

Update #2 on Fatal Crash - Victim Identified

 The operator of the Lincoln Town Car who died in the crash was William K. Rayfield, 77 of Laurel.

Update on Fatal Crash

Released Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Seaford – The Delaware State Police are providing additional information surrounding the fatal crash earlier today. Investigators determined a 1994 Lincoln Town Car, operated by a 77 year Laurel man, was northbound on Beaver Dam Branch Rd when it stopped at the stop sign at Hardscrabble Rd.

A 2005 Mack 10-wheel trash truck, owned by Waste Management, operated by Troy A. Maull, 44 of Lewes, was traveling eastbound on Hardscrabble road approaching Beaver Dam Branch Rd.

For an unknown reason, the operator of the Town Car failed to remain stopped at the stop sign and pulled out in front of the Mack truck in an attempt to turn left and travel westbound on Hardscrabble Rd. As a result of this action, the truck struck the Town Car with its front end on the driver’s door. The operator, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr. Maull was not injured and did have a seatbelt on. The roadway has been reopened. The identity of the deceased operator will be released later today after next of kin have been notified.

 

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Preliminary Release – Fatal Crash in Sussex County

Released Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Seaford – The Delaware State Police are currently on scene of a fatal crash located on Hardscrabble Road (SR 20) in the area of Beaver Dam Branch Road (CR 446).

The crash, which occurred approximately 12:30, has claimed the life of one person and involves a truck and a vehicle. As a result of the crash, the both roadways surrounding this intersection have been closed. Motorists should seek alternative routes.

When additional information becomes available, it will be released.

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