Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit has identified the 21 year old Wilmington man who was killed in the fatal motor vehicle crash which occurred on DE Rt. 141 yesterday afternoon as Thomas J. Carr.

This crash remains under investigation.

Released: 012417 1125

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**Original Releases**

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing to investigate a fatal motor vehicle crash which has claimed the life of a 21 year old man that occurred this afternoon just north of Wilmington.

The investigation thus far has determined that the crash happened at approximately 2:07 p.m. today, Monday, January 23, 2017, as a 21 year old Wilmington man was operating a 2013 Dodge Avenger and was traveling in a northbound direction on DE Rt. 141 (Powder Mill Road) just south of Alapocas Drive. The Avenger struck a large pool of water that had formed on the roadway due to the heavy rains, causing the operator to lose control of the car. The vehicle then crossed the centerline of the roadway and entered into the southbound lanes, facing in a westerly direction. The Dodge was then struck by a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, which was traveling on southbound Powder Mill Road, and which was being operated by Martin H. Knowles, IV, also of Wilmington. Both vehicles traveled in a southerly direction until they came to rest in the southbound lanes.

The operator of the Dodge Avenger, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, was trapped in his vehicle and was declared dead at the scene. The victim’s name is being withheld at this time pending the notification of his next of kin. It is unknown at this time if alcohol or drug use on the part of the victim was a factor in this crash.

Martin Knowles, who was also properly restrained at the time of the crash, was treated at the scene by the New Castle County Paramedics. He was then transported by ambulance to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated and released. Alcohol and drug use on the part of Knowles is not being considered as a factor in the crash.

This crash remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit. Powder Mill Road between Alapocas Drive and Barley Mill Road was closed for approximately 2.5 hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.

Released: 012317 2010

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**Original Release**

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating a serious motor vehicle crash which occurred this afternoon just north of Wilmington.

The initial investigation has determined that the crash occurred at approximately 2:07 p.m. on DE Rt. 141 (Powder Mill Road) in between Barley Mill Road and Alapocas Drive and involves two vehicles. As a result of the crash two subjects have been injured with one suffering very serious injuries.

Powder Mill Road is currently closed in both directions and commuters are asked to find alternate routes of travel around the crash scene.

The Delaware State Police Collision reconstruction Unit is currently enroute to the scene and will assume the investigation. More details will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

Released: 012317 1448

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing to investigate a fatal motor vehicle crash which has claimed the life of a 21 year old man that occurred this afternoon just north of Wilmington.

The investigation thus far has determined that the crash happened at approximately 2:07 p.m. today, Monday, January 23, 2017, as a 21 year old Wilmington man was operating a 2013 Dodge Avenger and was traveling in a northbound direction on DE Rt. 141 (Powder Mill Road) just south of Alapocas Drive. The Avenger struck a large pool of water that had formed on the roadway due to the heavy rains, causing the operator to lose control of the car. The vehicle then crossed the centerline of the roadway and entered into the southbound lanes, facing in a westerly direction. The Dodge was then struck by a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, which was traveling on southbound Powder Mill Road, and which was being operated by Martin H. Knowles, IV, also of Wilmington. Both vehicles traveled in a southerly direction until they came to rest in the southbound lanes.

The operator of the Dodge Avenger, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, was trapped in his vehicle and was declared dead at the scene. The victim’s name is being withheld at this time pending the notification of his next of kin. It is unknown at this time if alcohol or drug use on the part of the victim was a factor in this crash.

Martin Knowles, who was also properly restrained at the time of the crash, was treated at the scene by the New Castle County Paramedics. He was then transported by ambulance to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated and released. Alcohol and drug use on the part of Knowles is not being considered as a factor in the crash.

This crash remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit. Powder Mill Road between Alapocas Drive and Barley Mill Road was closed for approximately 2.5 hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.

Released: 012317 2010

###

**Original Release**

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating a serious motor vehicle crash which occurred this afternoon just north of Wilmington.

The initial investigation has determined that the crash occurred at approximately 2:07 p.m. on DE Rt. 141 (Powder Mill Road) in between Barley Mill Road and Alapocas Drive and involves two vehicles. As a result of the crash two subjects have been injured with one suffering very serious injuries.

Powder Mill Road is currently closed in both directions and commuters are asked to find alternate routes of travel around the crash scene.

The Delaware State Police Collision reconstruction Unit is currently enroute to the scene and will assume the investigation. More details will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

Released: 012317 1448

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale

New Castle (19720)- Delaware State Police are currently investigating the armed robbery of a New Castle area 7-11 that occurred late last week.

The initial investigation has determined that the robbery occurred at approximately 1:10 a.m. on Friday, January 20, 2017, as two male suspects entered the 7-11 located at 284 Christiana Road, New Castle. One of the suspects then displayed an unknown make and model handgun and approached the sales counter where he confronted a male clerk. The suspect then demanded money from the cash register. The employee complied with the suspect’s demands and turned over an undisclosed amount of money to him. Both suspects then exited the store and fled in an unknown direction. There were no injuries.

The armed suspect was described as a black male. He was 5’04”-5’05” tall, weighed 145-160 lbs., and was last seen wearing a black hooded jacket, black pants, and had a mask partially covering his face.

The second suspect was also a black male. He was 5’10”-6’00” tall and was last seen wearing a black hooded jacket, black pants, and also had a mask partially covering his face.

There is no further physical or clothing description available for either suspect. There are no video surveillance photos available to be released at this time.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact the Robbery Unit at Troop 2 at 302-365-8566. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

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Released: 012317 1535

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale

Wilmington (19803)- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating a serious motor vehicle crash which occurred this afternoon just north of Wilmington.

The initial investigation has determined that the crash occurred at approximately 2:07 p.m. on DE Rt. 141 (Powder Mill Road) in between Barley Mill Road and Alapocas Drive and involves two vehicles. As a result of the crash two subjects have been injured with one suffering very serious injuries.

Powder Mill Road is currently closed in both directions and commuters are asked to find alternate routes of travel around the crash scene.

The Delaware State Police Collision reconstruction Unit is currently enroute to the scene and will assume the investigation. More details will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

Released: 012317 1448

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Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

Wilmington, DE- Delaware State Police arrested two juveniles following a robbery that occurred last night.

The preliminary investigation has determined the incident occurred on Saturday, January 22, 2017, at approximately 8:10 p.m. as troopers were contacted at the Regal Cinema 16 located at 3300 Brandywine Parkway, Wilmington for a robbery that took place inside the movie theater. A trooper working at the theater, with the assistance of the security officer, located the suspects who were on foot outside the movie theater. The suspects identified as Isaiah Lecompte and Christopher Plonski were taken into custody without incident. Upon taking the suspects into custody a handgun and a cell phone were found on the ground next to the suspects. The cell phone was later found to belong to the victim.

The victim and a friend purchased movie tickets and went into the theater and sat down. Both of the suspects sat down next to the victim and pointed a handgun and demanded the victim to empty his pockets. The victim took out his wallet and cell phone which the suspects grabbed and then fled the movie theater. The victim was not injured.

Both, Isaiah Lecompte, 15 of Wilmington and Christopher Plonski, 15 of Wilmington were charged with Robbery 1^st Degree, Conspiracy 2^nd Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Juvenile. A computer check revealed Isaiah Lecompte was found to be Delinquent of a Robbery Second Degree in New Castle County Family Court and as a result he is a person prohibited from possessing a firearm.  Both Defendants were arraigned before Justice of the Peace Court 11 and committed to the New Castle County Detention Center after failing to post $57,000.00 cash bond.

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Released: 012217 1351

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Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

Wilmington, DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a Wilmington man and charged him in connection with the multiple robberies he committed over the past few days.

The preliminary investigation revealed the first incident occurred on Thursday, January 19, 2017 at approximately 5:50 p.m. at Teds Tailors & Cleaners located at 2606 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington. As the clerks were preparing to close the business the suspect entered through the front door and displayed a knife demanding money. The clerks complied and turned over an undisclosed amount of money to him. The suspect then fled. Troopers conducted an area canvas of the surrounding businesses and area neighborhoods near South Woodward Avenue towards Marion Avenue. The suspect was not located and the clerks were not injured.

The investigation into the second incident determined that it occurred on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at approximately 12:02 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Bank located at 3215 Old Capitol Trail, Wilmington. A male suspect approached the counter and implied he had a firearm as he confronted the bank teller. The suspect demanded money and the teller walked away to report the incident. Upon her return the suspect fled in an unknown direction.

The investigation revealed the last incident occurred at approximately 12:10 p.m. Saturday, January 21, 2017 as troopers were called to the Toni Cleaners located at 1606 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington for a report of a robbery. The suspect entered the store and approached two clerks and displayed a knife. The suspect demanded money from the cash registers and the victims complied and turned over an undisclosed amount of money to him. The suspect then fled the scene on foot through the front door along Kirkwood Highway and then walked westbound to Forrest Avenue. The two clerks were not injured. The suspect was seen on 2^nd Avenue heading towards Maple Avenue.

The suspect was described as a white male, approximately 40-50 years old, wearing a white hat, green jacket, gray shirt underneath, dark blue jeans and black shoes.

Following his flight from Toni Cleaners, the suspect was spotted on foot in the area of Forest Avenue. A suspect description was broadcasted and shortly thereafter an officer from the Elsmere Police Department spotted a subject matching the suspect description on foot approximately ½ mile west of Toni Cleaners, in the area of South Clifton Avenue and Marion Avenue.  After contact was made with the suspect, troopers responded to the location and revealed he was in possession of evidence of the robbery and was positively identified as Michael E. Tielleman, 50 of Wilmington. Troopers continued to canvas the area and located items discarded by the suspect after he fled the scene.

The suspect, Michael E. Tielleman was transported to Troop 2 where the Delaware State Police Robbery Unit detectives were able link him to the robberies. State Police detectives have obtained warrants charging Michael E. Tielleman with three counts of Robbery 1st Degree, three counts of Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony and Attempted Robbery 1^st Degree.

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If anyone has any information in reference to these incidents they are asked to contact the Robbery Unit at Troop 2, Glasgow, at 302-365-8566. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 012217 1111

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Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard Bratz

Harrington- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating an incident in which shots were fired early this morning during a large party west of Harrington.

The preliminary investigation determined the incident occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. this morning, Saturday, January 21, 2017, after troopers were called to respond to the 4,000 block of Cattail Branch Road west of Harrington for a report of a fight in progress in a nearby wooded area. Troopers were advised prior to arrival a subject at this location may have a firearm. Upon arrival, Troopers and officers of the Harrington Police Department heard shots fired coming from the tree line as they arrived on scene. Troopers assigned to Troop 5 and the Milford Police Department responded to assist. Troopers secured the area and attempted to contact several subjects as they attempted to leave the location. There were no reports of any injuries or any weapons found.

During the investigation a male subject, identified as Joshua Edge, 18 of Frederica, was in the process of being detained became disorderly after given basic commands to turn around and show his hands. Edge had a strong odor of alcohol and was determined he consumed alcohol. He was subsequently arrested for Underage Consumption of Alcohol.

As troopers were still conducting their investigation, another subject, identified as Mikayla Melvin, 18 of Harrington, became extremely disorderly by screaming and yelling profanities. She refused initial commands to get back or to get on the ground. Melvin eventually complied and was escorted to the patrol vehicle where it was determined she consumed alcohol. During the arrest of Melvin, she became increasingly out of control and refused to get into the patrol vehicle. She began kicking Troopers and the patrol vehicle which caused damage. Troopers were eventually able to gain control of Melvin and place her in the patrol vehicle. While secured in the vehicle she kicked the rear window of the patrol vehicle. Mikayla Melvin was arrested for two counts of Offensive Touching of Law Enforcement Officers, Resisting Arrest, Criminal Mischief, Underage Consumption of Alcohol and Disorderly Conduct.

Both subjects arrested were transported to Troop 3 and processed. They were arraigned before Justice of the Peace Court 7. Joshua Edge was released on a $500.00 unsecured bond and Mikayla Melvin was released on $3,150 unsecured bond. (mug shots not available)

Troopers conducted an extensive search of the area for any potential suspects or evidence. None were located. This incident remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact the Criminal Investigative Unit at Troop 3 at 302-697-4454. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

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Released: 012117 1041

Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

Bridgeville, DE- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating a motor vehicle crash which occurred last night east of Bridgeville.

The initial investigation has determined the incident occurred at approximately 4:44 p.m., Friday, January 20, 2017 as Holly Hoopes-Marine was operating a 2009 Kia Rio eastbound on Seashore Highway west of the intersection of Oak Road and attempted to pass a stopped a vehicle on the right when it lost traction on the wet roadway. The vehicle spun approximately 90 degrees in a counter clockwise direction into the westbound lane of Seashore Highway. As the Kia Rio entered the westbound lane it struck a 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe operated by Karen Collins, who was traveling westbound on Seashore Highway. After impact the Kia Rio continued to spin causing the rear right side to strike the left side of the Tahoe and stopped in the middle of Seashore Highway. The Tahoe continued in a north direction and struck a parked vehicle in the parking lot of the Myer’s store.

Holly Hoopes-Marine, 28 of Seaford, was transported from the scene by ambulance to the Nanticoke Memorial Hospital. She was treated for non-life threatening injuries and was cited for Careless Driving and Failure to have Insurance Identification in Possession.

Karen Collins, 69 of Georgetown, was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash. She was transported from the scene by ambulance to the Milford Memorial Hospital for non-life threatening injuries.

The parked vehicle was unoccupied at the time of the crash. The vehicle owner was contacted inside the Myer’s store and was provided with her copy of the accident exchange report.

Seashore Highway in the area of Oak Road was shut down for approximately one hour while the collision was investigated and cleared.

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Released: 012117 0651

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**Update #1 – Roadway Open**Troopers Investigating Motor Vehicle Crash – Bridgeville

Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

Bridgeville, De. – Seashore Highway and Oak Road has been re-opened. Troopers continue their investigation into this incident.

Released: 012017 1811

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**Traffic Advisory**

Troopers Investigating Vehicle Crash-Bridgeville

Bridgeville, De.- Delaware State Police are currently on the scene of a multiple vehicle crash on Seashore Highway and Oak Road that occurred today, January 20, 2017 at approximately 4:44 p.m. Both drivers have been transported to an area hospital from the scene in serious condition.

Seashore Highway (SR 404) in the area Oak Road is closed. Commuters are advised to seek alternate routes of travel.

Further details will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

Released: 012017 1721

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Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

After a successful introductory year in 2016, the Delaware State Police Honorary Commander Program begins this year with a new selection of community leaders.The Troop Commanders and the Community Outreach Unit worked together to select the 2017 Honorary Commanders.

The Honorary Commander Program partners Delaware State Police Commanders with key business, political and community leaders ideally within the Commander’s troop area in order to foster a mutually beneficial partnership. The program encourages the exchange of ideas, different experiences and an understanding of each other’s role in the community. The program offers members of the community a chance to experience and better understand aspects of law enforcement. This partnership enhances the mutual benefit of building and strengthening the bond between the Division and the communities we serve. It also aims to increase the Division’s involvement in civic endeavors and organizations while integrating members of the local community into the Delaware State Police family.

Each Delaware State Police Commander will be paired with a member of the Troop community as their Honorary Commander for a term of one year. During their tenure the Honorary Commander will be invited to attend such Divisional ceremonial events as Academy graduations, promotional and award ceremonies, and memorial services. Additionally, they will also be exposed to the Division’s operational mission through ride-alongs, training exercises, and special unit familiarization.

 There will be an Induction Ceremony for the 2017 Honorary Commanders and a Commencement Ceremony for the 2016 Honorary Commanders on Tuesday, January 24, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. at the DSP Academy located at 1453 North DuPont Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901. This ceremony is the first formal event with each partnered civilian commander.

Media is invited and encouraged to attend.

Released: 012017 2231

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Presented by the Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz

Bridgeville, De. – Seashore Highway and Oak Road has been re-opened. Troopers continue their investigation into this incident.

Released: 012017 1811

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**Traffic Advisory**

Troopers Investigating Vehicle Crash-Bridgeville

Bridgeville, De.- Delaware State Police are currently on the scene of a multiple vehicle crash on Seashore Highway and Oak Road that occurred today, January 20, 2017 at approximately 4:44 p.m. Both drivers have been transported to an area hospital from the scene in serious condition.

Seashore Highway (SR 404) in the area Oak Road is closed. Commuters are advised to seek alternate routes of travel.

Further details will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

Released: 012017 1721

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