The Delaware State Police is investigating a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred Friday afternoon in Wilmington.
On October 9, 2026, at approximately 1:30 p.m., a Jeep Cherokee was traveling in the left lane of northbound Philadelphia Pike, north of East Holly Oak Road. At the same time, a pedestrian was traveling in an electric wheelchair on the sidewalk along the east side of Philadelphia Pike. The preliminary investigation revealed the pedestrian left the sidewalk and entered the roadway, into the path of the Jeep. As a result, the Jeep struck the pedestrian.
The pedestrian, a 69-year-old man from Wilmington, was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. His name is being withheld until his family is notified.
The Jeep’s driver, a 51 year-old woman from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, initially stopped at the scene but later drove away. Shortly afterward, troopers located the driver and the Jeep at a nearby residence. The driver has not been arrested as investigators continue to gather evidence and determine whether charges are warranted.
The roadway was closed for approximately 3 hours while the scene was investigated and cleared.
The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this crash. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed the crash or has video 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 by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
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.