Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate a fatal motor vehicle crash which has claimed the life of a 90 year old man that occurred this morning.

The crash occurred at approximately 8:59 a.m. this morning as Charles Culnane, 90, of Wilmington, was attempting to cross Shipley Road in a westbound direction in the area of Baynard Boulevard. As Culnane entered the southbound lane of Shipley Road in or near the marked cross walk, he stepped directly into the path of a 2000 Mazda Protégé, which was being operated by Robert Luff, 21, of Wilmington, and which was traveling southbound on Shipley Road. Luff attempted to stop his vehicle in order to avoid striking Culnane, however, he was unable to. The front of the Mazda then struck Culnane, vaulting him into the windshield. He was then carried for a short distance before falling off of the vehicle and landing on the side of the road. Luff was able to bring his vehicle to a controlled stop at the scene.

Charles Culnane was treated at the scene by New Castle County Paramedics. He was then transported by ambulance to the Christiana Hospital where he was subsequently pronounced dead from his injuries.

Robert Luff, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, was not injured. Alcohol or drug use on the part of Culnane and Luff is not being considered as a factor in this crash.

This crash remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit.

Shipley Road between Baynard Boulevard and Weldin Road was closed for approximately 3 hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.

Released: 010417 1650

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**Original Release**

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is currently investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian that occurred this morning.

The initial investigation has determined that the crash occurred this morning, Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at approximately 8:59 a.m., in the area of the 1000 block of Shipley Road, and involves a motor vehicle and a male pedestrian. The pedestrian has been removed from the scene and transported to the Christiana Hospital where he has died as a result of his injuries. The operator of the motor vehicle remained at the scene and was not injured.

This crash remains under investigation at this time. Further information will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

Shipley Road in the area of the crash was closed for a period of time, however, it has since been re-opened.

Released: 010417 1355

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