Delaware State Police
News Release

Newark Man Killed in Motorcycle Crash

Released Saturday, April 19, 2008

Milton – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is currently investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred earlier tonight at 6:28 pm on SR 1 northbound north of SR 5.

Troopers learned a 1986 BMW, operated by Roscoe W. Crapper (58 of Lincoln) was traveling northbound on SR1 in the right lane. A second vehicle, a 2006 Ford Escape, operated by Phila Callahan (53 of New Castle) was traveling northbound in the left lane.

Witnesses reported that two motorcycles were observed traveling at a high rate of speed behind these two previously mentioned vehicles. The first motorcycle, a 2006 Harley Davidson operated by George C. McGinnes, 51 of Newark, struck the rear of the BMW.

As a result of the impact, Mr. McGinnes was thrown into the left lane where the Ford Escape struck him.

A second motorcycle, 2002 Harley Davidson that was also observed traveling at high rate along side Mr. McGinnes, lost control and crashed on the roadway also striking Mr. McGinnes in the left lane. After crashing, the operator of this motorcycle fled the scene leaving his motorcycle behind. Witnesses reported to police that a group of motorcycle riders that were trailing behind picked him up.  

Investigating troopers have recovered the second motorcycle and are continuing their investigation into the identity of the operator. Because of injuries sustained in the crash, Mr. McGinnes, who was not wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The operators of the BMW and Escape were wearing their seatbelts and did not receive any injuries. Alcohol was not a factor on their behalf. Due to the crash, the roadway was closed for several hours as investigators examined the crash scene. The roadway has since been reopened. The crash remains under investigation.