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

Newark- The Delaware Sate State Police is currently investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a motorcyclist that occurred last evening east of Newark.

The initial investigation has determined the crash occurred at approximately 9:49 p.m. last evening, Sunday, July 16, 2017, as Christopher Cooper, 45 of Philadelphia, was operating a 2001 Suzuki GSX motorcycle on I-95 northbound in the left center lane under the SR 1 flyover ramps. For unknown reasons, the operator lost control of the motorcycle and then laid the bike down. The motorcycle began to slide in a northwesterly direction and into the left shoulder. The motorcycle struck the concrete barrier which divides I-95 northbound and southbound lanes. The motorcycle continued to slide northbound in the left shoulder where it came to rest. The operator was ejected from the motorcycle and slid out into the northbound lanes of I-95 where he came to rest. As he was lying in the roadway, several vehicles struck the victim and continued northbound.

Christopher Cooper, 45 of Philadelphia, who was wearing a DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Speed on the part of the operator is believed to be a factor in the collision.

The striking vehicles in this collision are described as:

-Silver 2014-2016 Mazda 3 with front right damage

-1998-2002 Honda Accord with front end damage

I-95 northbound was closed at DE 273 for approximately three hours while the collision was investigated and the roadway cleared.

If anyone has witnessed this incident or has any information in reference to this case they are asked to contact Sergeant P. Dzielak of the Collision Reconstruction Unit at Troop 2, (302) 365-8484. 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.”

**Traffic Advisory** – Troopers Investigating Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash

Released: 071717 1721

-End-

Print This Page