Smyrna – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing its investigation into a crash that has claimed the life a Pennsylvania man.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:24 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017, on Smyrna Landing Road, just north of Brick Store Landing Road, Smyrna. A 2001 Lexus, being driven by Wade W. Knight, 22, of Philadelphia, was traveling Smyrna Landing Road northbound, at an apparent high rate of speed. After proceeding through the intersection with Brick Store Landing Road, without stopping at the posted stop sign, Knight lost control of the vehicle, which then travelled off the west edge of the roadway, striking multiple trees. As the vehicle began to spin, after making impact with the trees, Knight was ejected, ultimately coming to rest in the southbound lanes of Smyrna Landing Road. Knight was pronounced dead at the scene by responding EMS.

Knight was not wearing his seatbelt, and excessive speed does appear to be a factor in the crash. It has not been determined if impairment was a factor.

Knight was the sole occupant of the Lexus and no other vehicles were involved in the crash.

Smyrna Landing Road, between Paddock Road and Brick Store Landing Road, was closed for approximately 3 hours, while the crash was investigated and cleared.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Cpl. J. Breen of the Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit at 302-365-8486. 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

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: 122117 1730

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