Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel William Crotty

State Police Investigating Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Newark

Date Posted: Friday, October 18th, 2024

Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred in Newark last night that left one man dead.

On October 17, 2024, at approximately 7:11 p.m., a Toyota Avalon was traveling southbound, in the left turn lane, on Paper Mill Road approaching the intersection of Polly Drummond Hill Road. At the same time, a Nissan Rogue was traveling northbound on Paper Mill Road approaching Polly Drummond Hill Road. For reasons still under investigation, while the Toyota began making a left turn for Polly Drummond Hill Road, the Nissan also entered the intersection. As a result, the front of the Nissan struck the front of the Toyota. After the collision, the Nissan struck a curb causing it to overturn and hit a traffic signal pole.

The driver of the Toyota, an 82-year-old man from Newark, Delaware, was taken to an area hospital where he died. His name is being withheld until his family is notified.

The driver of the Nissan, a 25-year-old woman from Newark, Delaware, and a 3-year-old child were taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The roadway was closed for approximately six hours while the scene was investigated and cleared.

The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash or might have more information to contact Master Corporal R. Kunicki by calling (302) 660-4267. 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 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 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.