Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

Bridgeville – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred today north of Bridgeville.

The incident occurred around 4:46 p.m. Tuesday, June 13, 2017 as a 33-year-old male from Millsboro was operating a 1986 Honda Shadow motorcycle traveling northbound on Sussex Highway, (U.S. 13) in the right lane approaching the intersection of East Newton Road, Bridgeville. A 2009 Chrysler Sebring, operated by Michael D. Sauerwein, 42 of Rosedale, Maryland was westbound on East Newton Road. For unknown reasons, the motorcycle operator failed to stop for the red light and continued through the intersection directly into the path of the Sebring. The front of the motorcycle struck the front left of the Sebring within the middle of the intersection. After impact the operator was ejected from his motorcycle onto the roadway. The Sebring also stopped in the middle of the intersection.

The male operator, who was not wearing a helmet, was transported to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital by ambulance where he was pronounced deceased. His name is being withheld pending the notification of next of kin.

Michael D. Sauerwein, who was properly restrained in a seat belt, was not injured.

This crash remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit. Impairment is not a factor in this collision on behalf of the vehicle operator; however results are unknown on the part of the motorcycle operator. Speed is also not believed to be a factor in this collision on behalf of either vehicle.

The intersection of Sussex Highway (U.S. 13) and East Newton Road was closed for approximately 2.5 hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.

If anyone has any information or witnessed this crash they are asked to contact Corporal/3 K. Argo at (302)-703-3264. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline1800 VICTIM-1. (1800 842-8461).  You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@delaware.gov.

Released: 061317 2051

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**Traffic Advisory-Motorcycle Crash-Bridgeville**

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