Smyrna – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing its investigation into a crash that has claimed the life a Pennsylvania man.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:24 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017, on Smyrna Landing Road, just north of Brick Store Landing Road, Smyrna. A 2001 Lexus, being driven by Wade W. Knight, 22, of Philadelphia, was traveling Smyrna Landing Road northbound, at an apparent high rate of speed. After proceeding through the intersection with Brick Store Landing Road, without stopping at the posted stop sign, Knight lost control of the vehicle, which then travelled off the west edge of the roadway, striking multiple trees. As the vehicle began to spin, after making impact with the trees, Knight was ejected, ultimately coming to rest in the southbound lanes of Smyrna Landing Road. Knight was pronounced dead at the scene by responding EMS.

Knight was not wearing his seatbelt, and excessive speed does appear to be a factor in the crash. It has not been determined if impairment was a factor.

Knight was the sole occupant of the Lexus and no other vehicles were involved in the crash.

Smyrna Landing Road, between Paddock Road and Brick Store Landing Road, was closed for approximately 3 hours, while the crash was investigated and cleared.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Cpl. J. Breen of the Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit at 302-365-8486. 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: 122117 1730

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Newark – Delaware State Police are currently investigating a bank robbery that occurred yesterday afternoon, and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the suspect.

The incident occurred at approximately 2:56 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017, at the Artisans Bank, located at 2424 Pulaski Highway, Newark. The above pictured suspect entered the bank, and approached a 63 year old female employee at the teller counter, and provided her with a demand note. The victim complied with the instructions contained in the note, and turned over an undisclosed amount of cash. Once obtaining the money, the suspect fled the bank on foot, southbound towards the Peoples Plaza Shopping Center. The victim was not injured as a result of this incident.

The suspect is described as a white male, 40-50 years of age, 5’10” tall, weighing approximately 170-180 lbs., with a long, predominantly white beard, wearing a black coat and tan pants.

Investigative leads have determined that this suspect may also be responsible for multiple bank robberies that have occurred in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York, which are being investigated by the F.B.I.

Anyone with information regarding this incident or the pictured suspect, is asked to contact the Troop 2 Robbery Unit at 302-365-8566 or the F.B.I. Philadelphia office at 215-418-4000. 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: 122117 1500

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Folsom, Pennsylvania – On Monday, December 18, 2017, the Delaware State Police were honored in joining allied agencies from throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey and Delaware, to take part in the Sassey Massey Toy Drive: “Delivering Miles of Smiles”.

The Sassy Massey Toy Drive, which started in 2016, was the dream of 5 year old Jillian Massey, from Lehigh County Pennsylvania, who at the age of 4, was diagnosed with brain cancer. Having spent the better part of a year receiving treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Jillian made it her personal mission to collect 50 toys, over a two day period, to be delivered to patients at CHOP, who wouldn’t be able to make it home for Christmas.

With the help of family and friends, which included the Ridley Township Police Department, Jillian was able to collect 3000 toys, far surpassing her original goal. The donated toys were then personally delivered by Jillian and her team, to her friends who were still hospitalized.

Jillian raised the bar in 2017, hoping to collect 10,000 toys, which would then be delivered to CHOP, as well as eight other regional pediatric hospitals, to include A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington.

Unfortunately in late November, Jillian suffered a re-lapse, and ultimately passed away peacefully, on December 4, surrounded by her loved ones. After Jillian’s passing, her team forged on, changing their supportive tag-line from “You Got This Jillian”, to “We Got This Jillian”.

At 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 18, 2017, a convoy, which included hundreds of police cars and motorcycles, 12 mounted patrol units, 2 police helicopters and 20 K-9 units, left Ridley Township High School, heading north to Philadelphia and south to Wilmington with over 24,000 donated toys for delivery.

Prior to the departure there was a posthumous swearing in of Jillian, as an honorary member of the Ridley Township Police Department. Jillian’s parents, Janelle and Jim Massey, were presented with a shadow box, which displayed her uniform and her badge, #150, which is now officially retired.

Honor, Integrity, Courage, Loyalty, Attitude, Discipline and Service are the core values of the Delaware State Police. Jillian Massey embodied these values, and during the course of her far too short life, she was without a doubt, a real Trooper.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin

Released: 122117 1330

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Lewes – The Delaware State Police are currently investigating the thefts of multiple packages from front porches in which one suspect has been arrested and a second is still at large.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:20 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017, in the 21000 block of Acorn Way, Oakwood Village at Lewes, as a suspect was observed running up to a front porch, removing packages, and then fleeing in a white Kia Optima.  Through investigative measures, the suspect identified as 55-year-old Mary E. Murphy of Lewes was arrested on Felony Theft, Theft, Tampering With Physical Evidence, Falsifying Business Records, Hindering Prosecution, Conspiracy 3rd, Criminal Mischief, and two counts of Criminal Trespass 3rd.  Murphy was arraigned out of Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on $3351.00 unsecured bond.

A second suspect in this case has been identified as 32-year-old Derek J. Rice of Lewes.  Rice is described as a white male, 5’05” tall, 160 lbs., with red hair and blue eyes.  Troopers have obtained a warrant for the arrest of Rice, however they have been unable to locate him at this time.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone who has information regarding the whereabouts of Rice or any other individuals who may have been a victim are asked to please contact Troop 7 at 302-644-5020.  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

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe

Released: 122117 0957

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Seaford– The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred  last evening on Seaford Road (SR 13A) just south of Easter Lane (CR 485A).

The incident occurred at approximately 10:12 p.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2017, as a 23-year-old Seaford man was operating a 2003 Mercury Marauder southbound on Seaford Road.  The operator of the Mercury was approaching a slight right curve at the intersection of Easter Lane when he accelerated at a  high rate of speed in an attempt to pass a vehicle.  Upon reaching the intersection, the operator failed to negotiate the curve causing his vehicle to spin and him to lose control.  While exiting the roadway, the vehicle overturned and collided with a large standing tree.  After the impact, the vehicle flipped back onto its wheels for its final resting place.

The 23-year-old operator of the Mercury was identified as Shyheim Kellam-Griffin. Shyheim suffered fatal injuries as a result of this crash and was pronounced dead at the scene on Wednesday, December 20, 2017.  Shyheim was wearing his seatbelt and it is unknown at this time if impairment is a contributing factor in this crash.

A 21-year-old man from Seaford was a passenger seated in the front seat of the Mercury and was properly restrained.  As a result of the crash, he was removed from the scene and transported by EMS to the Nanticoke Memorial Hospital where he was admitted with serious injuries.

Seaford Road just south of Easter Lane remained closed for approximately 3 hours while the crash was being investigated.

The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing their investigation into this incident.

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.

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe

Released: 122117 0820

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Smyrna – Delaware State Police are currently on scene of a fatal crash, involving a single vehicle, which occurred at approximately 8:24 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017, on Smyrna Landing Road in the area of Brick Store Landing Road, Smyrna.

The investigation is in the very early stages, with further details being released as they become available.

Use caution if traveling in the area as emergency vehicles are still on scene.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit at 302-365-8484. 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. 

You can follow the Delaware State Police by clicking on:

Delaware State Police Official Web Site

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Please tell us how we’re doing via our Citizen Satisfaction Survey.

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin

Released:122017 2150 

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Newark – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing its investigation into a motor vehicle crash which claimed the life of a Newark teenager.

The incident occurred at approximately 6:29 p.m., Tuesday, December 19, 2017, at the intersection of Salem Church Road and Cornell Drive, Newark. A 2011 Dodge Nitro, operated by a 27 year old Newark man, was traveling Salem Church Road northbound, approaching the intersection with Cornell Drive. A 2001 Saturn SL 2, operated by Caitlin Rouwhorst, 17, also of Newark, was stopped at a stop sign on Cornell Drive, at the intersection with Salem Church Road. The Saturn then proceeded into the intersection, directly into the path of the Dodge, without yielding, and as a result was struck on the driver’s side door.

Caitlin Rouwhorst was transported to the Christiana Hospital, where she died as a result of her injuries. A 16 year old male passenger in the Saturn was also transported to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The driver of the Dodge was transported to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries. An 8 year old male passenger in the Dodge was uninjured as a result of the crash.

The initial investigation has determined that all parties were properly restrained and that impairment does not appear to be a contributing factor in the crash.

Salem Church Road was closed for approximately 4 hours as the initial investigation was conducted.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Sgt. D. Alexander at 302-365-8484. 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

Click on the following link to view the original release: *Traffic Advisory* Serious Crash Has Salem Church Road Closed – Newark

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. 

You can follow the Delaware State Police by clicking on:

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Please tell us how we’re doing via our Citizen Satisfaction Survey.

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin

Released: 122017 1551

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During the week of December 11^th, the Delaware State Police, with the support of the Delaware State Troopers Association (DSTA), made their annual holiday visits to schools and hospitals throughout the state.

Troopers had the honor of escorting Santa and Mrs. Claus, Miss Delaware 2017 Chelsea Bruce, along with other beloved characters, as they interacted with the children, in the hopes of spreading some holiday cheer.

In New Castle County, a visit was made to the Nemours/Alfred I. du Pont Hospital for Children, where lunch was provided to the children and their families, courtesy of the DSTA. During the luncheon, the children were able to play games and make holiday crafts, provided by the hospital’s Child Life Department, as well as having the opportunity to visit with Santa.

Troopers then escorted Santa and his friends, as he delivered gifts to patients in their rooms, who were unable to attend the luncheon. In all, over 200 patients received an early Christmas present, also provided by the Child Life Department. This marks the 20th year, that the Delaware State Troopers Association has sponsored the Troopers visit to the hospital.

In Kent County, Troopers escorted Santa and his friends to the Secret Garden Day Care, the Kent County Community School and the Charlton School.

In Sussex County, visits were made to Morris Elementary School in Lincoln, as well as the Howard T. Ennis School and the Stockley Center, both in Georgetown.

While these visits are intended to bring smiles to the faces of the children, there is no denying that the Troopers who participate, receive an equal amount of joy in return.

These visits are just another way that the Delaware State Police strives to accomplish their intended mission of: “Enhancing the quality of life for all Delaware Citizens and visitors by providing professional, competent and compassionate law enforcement services”.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin

Released: 122017 1530

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Newark – Delaware State Police are currently on scene of a serious motor vehicle crash that occurred at approximately 6:29 p.m., Tuesday, December 19, 2017, at the intersection of Salem Church Road and Cornell Drive, Newark.

Salem Church Road is closed between U.S. 40 (Pulaski Highway) and Bradley Drive.

Motorists will experience prolonged delays in the area, and are advised to seek alternate routes of travel.

The investigation is in it’s early stages with details being released as they become available.

For road closure information log on to: http://www.deldot.gov/Traffic/travel_advisory/index.shtml#advisories.

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin

Released: 121917 1930

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Kent County– On Monday, December 18, 2017, Delaware State Troopers assigned to Troop 3 and the Community Outreach Unit helped spread holiday cheer by partnering with Delaware Meals on Wheels.  Captain Joshua Bushweller along with State Representative Lyndon Yearick _, and Troopers helped deliver 170 hot meals to individuals in need. The deliveries were made in areas including; Kent Acres, Kentwood Mobile Home Park, Meadowbrook Acres, Paris Villa, Mifflin Meadows, Alder Park, Rodney Village, and Little Creek/Leipsic area.  The initiative allowed for positive interactions and a chance for the Delaware State Police to give back to the communities they serve.  The event was well received and many individuals were extremely thankful for the State Police taking time to deliver them a warm meal.

Meals on Wheels is a service available to those that are homebound and are over the age of 60 or under the age of 60 with a physical disability.  This program generally helps seniors who are unable to get and prepare food on their own.  Ms. Trudy Clay, Meals on Wheels Coordinator at the Modern Maturity Center, stated each day 1,100 individuals in Kent County receive meals through Meals on Wheels.  She expressed how this program consisting of approximately 60 volunteers in Kent County has continued to help many people in need.

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Nextdoor

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe

Released: 121817 1300

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