Bridgeville- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit are continuing to investigate a fatal crash that occurred last evening on Chaplains Chapel Road.

The incident occurred on August 24, 2020, at approximately 6:15 p.m., when a 1999 Jeep Cherokee was traveling southbound on Chaplains Chapel Road south of Deer Forest Road negotiating a slight curve in the roadway. A 2005 Nissan Altima was traveling northbound on Chaplains Chapel Road in the same general vicinity. For unknown reasons the operator of the Cherokee entered the northbound lane striking the Altima nearly head-on.

The operator of the Cherokee, 32-year-old Dustin R. Westwood, from Lincoln, DE, was properly restrained and declined medical treatment.  He was transported back to Troop 5 where he was charged with the following:

• Vehicular Homicide First Degree (Felony)
• Driving While Suspended or Revoked
• Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Drug
• Failure to Have Insurance Identification in Possession
• Failed to remain within a single lane

Westwood was arraigned before the Justice of the Peace Court and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $55001.00 cash only bond.

The operator of the Altima, a 40-year-old female from Bridgeville, DE, was not properly restrained and pronounced deceased at the scene.  Her name is being withheld at this time pending the notification of next of kin.

Chaplains Chapel Road between Deer Forest Road and Russell Road was closed for approximately 3.5 hours while the crash was investigated and cleared.

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:082520 0913

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