Georgetown – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian that has claimed the life of a Virginia man.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:47 p.m., Friday, December 22, 2017, on DuPont Boulevard (U.S. 113) southbound, just north of the intersection with Seashore Highway (S.R. 18), Georgetown.

A 2006 Jaguar S-Type, being operated by a 53 year old Pennsylvania woman, was traveling DuPont Boulevard southbound in the left lane, approaching the intersection with Seashore Highway. Daniel W. Rohde Jr., 75, was on foot, attempting to cross DuPont Boulevard, in an easterly direction and proceeded directly into the path of the Jaguar. The driver was unable to avoid Rohde, and he was in turn struck by the right front bumper of the vehicle, while in the left lane of travel. Rohde was thrown onto the hood and windshield of the vehicle, before falling to the ground, eventually coming to rest in the DuPont Boulevard southbound, right lane. The Jaguar continued southbound, coming to a controlled stop, in the left turn lane.

Rohde, who was wearing dark clothing, had no light and was not utilizing a marked crosswalk, was pronounced dead at the scene by responding EMS. Alcohol does appear to be a factor on his behalf.

The operator of the Jaguar, as well as a 24 year old Pennsylvania man, who was a front seat passenger in the vehicle, were both properly restrained and sustained no injuries as a result of the crash. Neither speed nor impairment are being considered factors on behalf the driver.

The southbound lanes of DuPont Boulevard were closed for approximately 3 hours while the crash was investigated and cleared.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Cpl. A. Mitchell at 302-703-3322. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware crime stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com

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@delaware.gov. 

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin

Released: 122317 1500

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