Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel Melissa Zebley

State Police Investigating Fatal Pedestrian Crash in Newark

Date Posted: Tuesday, May 21st, 2024

4 and Salem Church

The Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred last night in Newark that left one man dead.

On May 20, 2024, at approximately 8:51 p.m., a black 2019 Toyota Tundra was traveling in the right eastbound lane of East Chestnut Hill Road approaching the intersection of Salem Church Road. At the same time, a pedestrian, who was not wearing any reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight, was attempting to cross the eastbound lanes of E. Chestnut Hill Road from the center median. The Toyota swerved in an attempt to the pedestrian directly in its path, however, was unable to avoid the collision and struck the pedestrian in the eastbound lanes.

The pedestrian, a 72-year-old man from Newark, Delaware, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family and relatives are notified.

The driver of the Toyota, a 61-year-old woman from Wilmington, Delaware, was not injured.

The roadway was closed for approximately 3 hours while the investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway.

The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues investigating this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Master Corporal J. Forester by calling (302) 365-8485. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need 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 at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.