Harrington- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a fatal crash involving a single vehicle that occurred last evening.
The crash occurred on July 31, 2020, at approximately 6:36 p.m., when a 1996 Ford Explorer was traveling eastbound on Flatiron Road towards Hammondtown Road. For unknown reasons the vehicle exited the roadway where it continued to travel in a shallow, grassy swale. After exiting the roadway, the vehicle overturned ejecting both the operator and the passenger.
The operator, 34-year-old Frederick Wildt of Ellendale, DE, (no photo available) was not properly restrained. He was transported to the Sussex Bayhealth Hospital where he was treated and released with non-life threatening injuries. Wildt displayed signs of impairment and a DUI investigation ensued. Wildt was transported back to Troop 3 where he was charged with the following:
- Vehicular Homicide Second Degree Driving Under the Influence (Felony)
- Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol
- Failed to remain within a single lane
- Driver must wear properly adjusted and fastened seatbelt
- Driver of MV Shall Properly Secure all Passengers 16 yrs or older with Seatbelts
Wildt was arraigned before the Justice of the Peace Court and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $10250.00 secured bond.
The passenger, a 69-year-old male from Denton, MD, was not properly restrained. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. His name is being withheld at this time pending the notification of next of kin.
The roadway was closed for approximately 4.5 hours while the crash was investigated and cleared.
*TRAFFIC ADVISORY* Troopers Investigating Serious Crash on Flatiron Road-Harrington
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@state.de.us.
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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe
Released: 080120 0917
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