Newark – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing its investigation into a motor vehicle crash which claimed the life of a Newark teenager.

The incident occurred at approximately 6:29 p.m., Tuesday, December 19, 2017, at the intersection of Salem Church Road and Cornell Drive, Newark. A 2011 Dodge Nitro, operated by a 27 year old Newark man, was traveling Salem Church Road northbound, approaching the intersection with Cornell Drive. A 2001 Saturn SL 2, operated by Caitlin Rouwhorst, 17, also of Newark, was stopped at a stop sign on Cornell Drive, at the intersection with Salem Church Road. The Saturn then proceeded into the intersection, directly into the path of the Dodge, without yielding, and as a result was struck on the driver’s side door.

Caitlin Rouwhorst was transported to the Christiana Hospital, where she died as a result of her injuries. A 16 year old male passenger in the Saturn was also transported to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The driver of the Dodge was transported to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries. An 8 year old male passenger in the Dodge was uninjured as a result of the crash.

The initial investigation has determined that all parties were properly restrained and that impairment does not appear to be a contributing factor in the crash.

Salem Church Road was closed for approximately 4 hours as the initial investigation was conducted.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Sgt. D. Alexander at 302-365-8484. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware crime stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com

Click on the following link to view the original release: *Traffic Advisory* Serious Crash Has Salem Church Road Closed – Newark

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 hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1800 842-8461).  You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@delaware.gov. 

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin

Released: 122017 1551

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