The Delaware State Police is investigating a three-vehicle fatal crash that occurred Friday evening in Newark.

On January 16, 2026, at approximately 5:30 p.m., a Kia Sportage was stopped behind a Subaru Outback in the left lane of eastbound Pulaski Highway, west of David Place. At the same time, a Hyundai Kona was traveling eastbound on Pulaski Highway, approaching the stopped Kia. For reasons currently being investigated, the Hyundai failed to stop and crashed into the rear of the Kia. The collision pushed the Kia forward causing it to crash into the rear of the Subaru.

The driver of the Hyundai, 85-year-old Melvin Pitt of New Castle, Delaware, was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. On January 17, 2026, Pitt died from the injuries he sustained during the crash.

The passenger of the Hyundai, an 83-year-old woman from Newark, Delaware, was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The occupants of the Subaru and Kia did not report any injuries.

The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this crash. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed the crash or has video to contact Sgt. J. Jefferson at (302) 365-8484. 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 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

The Delaware State Police have arrested 22-year-old Antwoine Savage of Seaford, Delaware and a 16-year-old male, from Bridgeville, Delaware, for vehicle theft and related charges, and 20-year-old Lamir Faison of Bridgeville, Delaware for gun and drug charges following several vehicle thefts investigation.

Earlier this month, troopers and detectives began investigating multiple vehicle thefts throughout western Sussex County. During the investigation, detectives learned that unknown suspects had stolen or attempted to steal several vehicles (mostly KIA and Hyundai) from residential driveways in the Blades, Bridgeville, Laurel, and Seaford areas. While some of the vehicles were unlocked, others were locked and stolen without the use of the keys. Some of the vehicles have been recovered. Through investigative means, and the public’s help, detectives identified Antwoine Savage and a 16-year-old male as the suspects and obtained warrants for their arrest.

On January 16, 2026, members of the Sussex County Governor’s Task Force (GTF) responded to a residence on the 12000 block of Jones Dogwood Drive in Bridgeville to locate Savage and the 16-year-old. When detectives arrived, they saw the 16-year-old suspect standing in the front yard and took him into custody without incident. Detectives searched the property for Savage, and while doing so heard someone in a shed, identified as probationer Lamir Faison. While speaking to Faison, detectives saw drug paraphernalia in the shed, and he was detained without incident. Detectives contacted Savage at the residence, and he was taken into custody without incident.

At the request of GTF, Probation and Parole responded and conducted an administrative search of the shed where Faison was staying. During the search, probation officers found the following items:

• Multiple caliber rifle
• Lower receiver of a multiple caliber rifle
• Approximately 4.53 grams of heroin
• Drug paraphernalia with cocaine residue
• Digital scale
• Pyrex container with cocaine residue
• Pyrex container
• Plastic bags, spoons, and forks (all with cocaine residue)
• Baking soda

The 16-year-old was taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released to a parent/guardian on his own recognizance.

• Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony) – 4 counts
• Attempted Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony) – 3 counts
• Conspiracy 2^nd Degree (Felony) – 7 counts
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 but less than $5,000 – 4 counts
• Criminal Mischief under $1,000 – 3 counts
• Criminal Trespass 3^rd Degree – 7 counts

Savage was taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace 2, and released on his own recognizance.

• Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
• Attempted to Commit Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2^nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 but less than $5,000 – 2 counts
• Criminal Trespass 3^rd Degree – 2 counts

Faison was taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $146,600 cash bond.

• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm/Destructive Weapon if Previously Convicted of a Violent Felony (Felony)
• Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon – Firearm (Felony)
• Manufacture/Deliver/Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance, Tier 2 (Felony)
• Manufacture/Deliver/Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance
• Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 2 (Felony)
• Unlawful to Knowingly Operate a Clandestine Laboratory (Felony)
• Possession of a Controlled or Counterfeit Substance except Human Growth Hormone without a Prescription
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – 2 counts

The Delaware State Police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred early this morning in Ellendale.

On January 18, 2026, at approximately 1:20 a.m., troopers responded to the 18000 block of Sharons Road in Ellendale for a report of shots fired. The preliminary investigation revealed that an unknown suspect fired multiple shots that struck an occupied residence and two unoccupied vehicles. Two adults and two children were in the home at the time, and no one was injured.

Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives ask anyone who has relevant information to contact Detective R. Mitchell by calling (302) 752-3794. 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 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.

The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (SOAR) is issuing the following public notifications of homeless and wanted sex offenders.

Wanted Sex Offenders

SOAR is currently looking for the following wanted sex offenders after they either failed to register or re-register at their current address.  If anyone knows the location of these individuals, please call (302) 739-5882.  Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.  The individuals shown represent only a portion of the current wanted sex offenders. Please see the Delaware Sex Offender Registry website for the complete list.

Homeless Sex Offender

The following individual is not wanted for failing to register or re-register at their current address.  This is a homeless sex offender public notification.  If you have information that the listed individuals are occupying a residence, please call (302) 739-5882. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.  The individuals shown are those recently reported homeless and represent only a portion of the current homeless sex offenders. Please see the Delaware Sex Offender Registry website for the complete list.

The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is providing a final update of its investigation regarding the murder of Cpl/1 Matthew T. “Ty” Snook, which occurred on December 23, 2025, at the Karen L. Johnson Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) facility, located at 2230 Hessler Boulevard in New Castle, Delaware.

Following a thorough investigation, the Delaware State Police have determined that Cpl/1 Snook was the victim of a targeted attack against law enforcement.  The investigation identified Rahman Rose as the suspect responsible for the murder of Cpl/1 Snook.  Rose, who had previously resided in Connecticut, had most recently been staying in the Wilmington area without a permanent address.

Leading up to the incident, Rose told those who knew him that he believed the police were targeting him and that he was concerned law enforcement was coming after him.  He had also recently posted anti-police content on social media and expressed that he was the victim of “gang stalking,” a personal belief that someone is being constantly surveilled and harassed by the government and/or law enforcement entities.

The investigation has found no evidence that Rose was acting on behalf of, or in conjunction with, any group or other individuals.  Additionally, it was found that while Rose had limited contact with Delaware law enforcement in the year prior to the incident, none of those contacts were criminal in nature, resulted in an arrest, or involved Cpl/1 Snook. Detectives found no prior relationship, interaction, or dispute between Rose and Cpl/1 Snook.  Based on the totality of the evidence, detectives concluded this was a deliberate and targeted attack on law enforcement.

The handgun used in the murder was legally purchased by Rose in 2021 while he was in Connecticut.  At the time of the purchase and prior to the incident, Rose was not prohibited from purchasing or possessing weapons, and he had a limited criminal record.

On December 23, 2025, Rose entered the DMV at approximately 11:30 a.m., took a seat in the driver services area, and exited a short time later without contacting anyone or conducting any business.  He returned at approximately 1:56 p.m. and obtained a queue ticket from the welcome desk, where Cpl/1 Snook and a DMV employee were stationed. There was no interaction or exchange between Rose and Cpl/1 Snook at that time.  Rose again took a seat in the driver services area.

Approximately three minutes later, Rose ambushed Cpl/1 Snook from behind at the welcome desk.  Rose fired several rounds, striking Cpl/1 Snook over the glass partition from a handgun he had concealed on his body.  Cpl/1 Snook valiantly and heroically shielded the DMV employee from harm before he was struck again by additional gunfire.

As previously reported, Rose allowed and encouraged several customers to leave the building while he remained inside. He then appeared to wait for responding law enforcement.  The investigation revealed that the only additional shots fired by Rose were at responding officers, further supporting that the attack was solely directed at law enforcement personnel.

At approximately 2:07 p.m., a responding officer from the New Castle County Police Department shot Rose through a window from outside the building. Rose was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Delaware State Police would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has shown support during this incredibly difficult time. Cpl/1 Snook was an exemplary Trooper and a devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend. Ty’s courageous act of strength and sacrifice reflected the core values he lived by every day – protecting others with bravery, selflessness, and steadfast integrity.  Ty leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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.

The Delaware State Police is investigating a shots fired incident that occurred Tuesday night at a convenience store in New Castle.

On January 13, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m., troopers responded to a report of shots fired at the Wawa located at 4000 North Dupont Highway. The preliminary investigation revealed two men arrived at the location, parked their vehicle, and entered the store. Upon exiting, they encountered a group of three men, and a confrontation occurred for unknown reasons. The two men initially returned to their vehicle but later came back to the store in search of the three individuals. Both groups ultimately located one another in the parking lot, where multiple shots were fired. All parties fled the scene following the shooting.

There were no reported injuries, and two vehicles were struck by gunfire.

The Delaware State Police Criminal Investigations Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives ask anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact Detective M. Conway at (302) 365-8411. 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 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.

The Delaware State Police have arrested 41-year-old Shelly Sortino of Milton, Delaware for a robbery that occurred last night in Lewes.

On January 13, 2026, at approximately 7:00 p.m. troopers responded to Dollar General, located at 1549 Savannah Road in Lewes, for a report of a robbery. When troopers arrived, they learned that a white female suspect, wearing white sweatpants, a dark colored sweatshirt, and a mask, approached two employees, implied she had a gun, and demanded money. The suspect accessed the register, stole money, and fled in a blue Ford Focus with a Delaware tag.

At approximately 8:00 p.m., troopers responded to the 14000 block of Staytonville Road in Lincoln for a report of a disabled blue Ford Focus in the roadway. When troopers arrived, they spoke to the driver, who matched the description of the robbery suspect and identified her as Shelly Sortino. A computer check showed that Sortino had an active capias warrant, and the license plate on the Focus was stolen. Through investigative means, troopers identified Sortino as the suspect in the robbery, and she was arrested without incident.

Sortino was taken to Troop 7, where she was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $33,000 secured bond.

• Robbery 1^st Degree – Uses/Threatens Use of Dangerous Instrument (Felony)
• Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or 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.

The Delaware State Police have arrested 36-year-old Charles Carter, from Wilmington, Delaware, for robbery and related charges in connection with an armed robbery that occurred in November.

On November 14, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., troopers responded to a report of an armed robbery at La Oaxaquena Grocery Store, located at 107 North Maryland Avenue, in Wilmington. The preliminary investigation revealed that two unknown suspects entered the store and demanded money from a store employee. One of the suspects pointed a handgun at customers and employees during the incident. The armed suspect lost balance while reaching over the counter and subsequently fired a single shot. No one was injured. The suspects fled with money, an employee’s personal property, and then drove away in a dark colored sedan.

Detectives identified the getaway vehicle as a black Hyundai Elantra with a Virginia tag. On November 15, 2025, at approximately 9:00 p.m., officers from the Wilmington Police Department located the Elantra, stopped it, and identified the driver as Ignacio Reyes-Hernandez. State police detectives took Reyes-Hernandez into custody and determined he was one of the suspects involved in the robbery. Through investigative means, detectives identified the second suspect they were looking for as Charles Carter and obtained a warrant for his arrest.

On January 12, 2026, the New Castle County Governor’s Task Force conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Camry where Carter was a passenger. He was arrested without incident and during a search of his person, detectives found 9mm ammunition and 6 oxycodone pills. During a search of the Camry, detectives found approximately 0.68 grams of crack cocaine and a digital scale. Carter was also wanted for several shoplifting incidents at Concord Mall and Christiana Mall. The other occupants were arrested for misdemeanor offenses.

Carter was taken to Troop 6, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $78,280 cash and secured bonds.

• Robbery 1^st Degree (Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm/Destructive Weapon Within 10 Years of Prior Conviction of Any Felony (Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited Prior Violent Crime or Felony (Felony)
• Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony)
• Aggravated Menacing (Felony) – 2 counts
• Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2^nd Degree (Felony) – 3 counts
• Shoplifting Over $1,500 (Felony)
• Attempted Shoplifting Over $1,500 (Felony)
• Shoplifting Under $1,500 – 2 counts
• Conspiracy 3rd Degree – 2 counts
• Possession of a Controlled or Counterfeit Substance except Human Growth Hormone without a Prescription – 2 counts
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

The Delaware State Police are investigating a convenience store robbery that occurred early this morning in Wilmington.

On January 13, 2026, at approximately 2:40 a.m., troopers responded to 7-Eleven, located at 2100 Foulk Road, in Wilmington, for a report of an armed robbery. The preliminary investigation revealed that an unknown male suspect entered the store, approached the store employee with a gun, and demanded money. The employee did not comply, and the suspect removed money from register, as well as cigarettes, and ran away. No one was injured during the incident. Police searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect.

The suspect is described as a male, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black pants, gloves, light colored backpack, and a face mask. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.

The Delaware State Police Criminal Investigations Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives ask anyone who witnessed the robbery, or has relevant information, to contact Detective B. Timmons at (302) 365-8434. 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 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.

Delaware State Police have identified 37-year-old Linwood Owens, Jr. of Georgetown, Delaware, as the man who died in the fatal crash Sunday night in Milford.

The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact Master Corporal K. Argo at (302) 703-3264. 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 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.