State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Newark

Date Posted: Thursday, April 2nd, 2026

Graphic titled “Fatal Crash Investigation” featuring a Delaware State Police patrol vehicle near surveying equipment used to investigate fatal crashes and a drone overlaid in the left foreground. A silhouette map of Delaware appears on the left, the text “BecomeATrooper.com” on the bottom center, and social media icons are shown at the bottom right corner.

The Delaware State Police is investigating a three-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Wednesday evening in Newark.

On April 1, 2026, at approximately 6:50 p.m., a Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling northbound on South College Avenue (Route 896) north of the intersection with Old Baltimore Pike in Newark. At the same time, a Chevrolet Silverado and a Subaru Ascent were traveling southbound on Route 896 in the same area. For reasons currently under investigation, the Jeep crossed over the center median and struck the Chevrolet. During the crash, the Subaru was also struck.

The driver of the Jeep, a 45-year-old man from Newark, was transported to a nearby hospital, where he died. His name is being withheld until his family is notified.

The driver of the Chevrolet, a 42-year-old man from Newark, was transported to a nearby hospital with critical injuries.

The driver of the Subaru, a 42-year-old male from Middletown, was not injured.

The roadway was closed for approximately five hours while the collision was investigated and cleared.

The investigation is still ongoing by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed the crash or has any information to contact Corporal K. Oakes at (302) 365-8483. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you 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 (800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov