State Police Investigating Single-Vehicle Fatal Crash in Hartly
Date Posted: Monday, May 4th, 2026
The Delaware State Police are investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash that occurred last night in Hartly.
On May 3, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m., a Ford F-350 was traveling northbound on Butterpat Road south of Bear Pond Road in Hartly. The preliminary investigation revealed that the F-350 failed to negotiate a curve, the unrestrained driver over-corrected, and was ejected from the truck. It is believed that the driver’s door was not properly secured at the time of the crash. The unoccupied F-350 continued northbound and ultimately came to a stop in a field.
The driver, a 31-year-old man from Hartly, Delaware, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family is notified.
The roadway was closed for approximately 4 hours while the scene was investigated and cleared.
The investigation is still ongoing by the Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed or has information about the crash to contact Sergeant M. Long by calling (302) 698-8518. 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 has lost a loved one to a sudden death and needs 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.
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