Dagsboro – The Delaware State Police are currently searching for a missing Dagsboro woman that hasn’t been seen since the beginning of September.

Detectives are looking for Courtney Marie Finnell, 32, who was last seen by her family on Thursday September 1, 2016 after she left her mother’s residence in Millsboro and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.  Courtney is currently homeless and may be in the Millsboro or Dagsboro area.  There is a concern for Finnell’s well-being.

Courtney Finnell is described as being 5’08” tall, 150 lbs., with brown hair and green eyes.

If anyone has any information in reference to her whereabouts they are asked to contact Detective M. Doughty at 302-752-3794. 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.”

Released: 111716 1625

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Seaford– The Delaware State Police are currently investigating an incident in which shots were fired near residences on Church Road east of Seaford.

The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. Wednesday November 16, 2016 as troopers responded to the area of Church Road and Concord Pond Road for a report of shots fired in the area. When troopers arrived, they were contacted by some residents who advised there were multiple gunshots that were fired in the direction of their houses.  Shell casings were located on the roadway and one of the victim’s vehicles sustained a bullet hole.

A home surveillance camera captured what appeared to be a dark colored pick up truck in the area at the time of the gunshots (See attached).

This case remains under investigation at this time and the Delaware State Police is requesting any information regarding this incident to contact Detective J. Jones at 302-752-3795. 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.”

Released: 111716 1145

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Millsboro – The Delaware State Police are currently conducting a death investigation after a 30-year-old male was discovered deceased in a roadway.

At approximately 11:50 p.m. Wednesday November 16, 2016, Millsboro Police Department responded to the area of West Monroe Street and Houston Street after a 9-1-1 call was placed reporting a male victim unconscious and laying partially in the roadway.  Sussex County Emergency Medical Services also responded to the scene and pronounced the victim dead.

The Delaware Division of Forensic Science was contacted and removed the male victim, whose name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin, to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.

Delaware State Police Homicide Detectives were contacted at the request of Millsboro Police Department and have assumed the investigation into this incident as foul play is suspected. Detectives are continuing their investigation by conducting interviews and collecting evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding this incident.  Additional information and investigative details will be disseminated as soon as it becomes available and the investigation progresses.  No suspect information has been developed at this time.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact Detective M. Csapo at 302-698-8427. 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.”

Released: 111716 1110

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Newark- Delaware State Police are investigating a serious three vehicle crash which injured six people that occurred yesterday evening near Newark.

The initial investigation has determined that the crash occurred at approximately 6:19 p.m. on Wednesday, November 16, 2016, as Shakina N. Yates, 32, of Newark, was operating a 2005 Chrysler Sebring, and was attempting to make a left hand turn from southbound Salem Church Road into the entrance of the Salem Center, located just north of US Rt. 40 (Pulaski Highway), Newark. As the Sebring entered the northbound lane of Salem Church Road, it drove directly into the path of a 1996 Chevrolet Silverado, which was being operated by John F. Reilly, 35, of Newark. The front of the Silverado then struck the right side of the Sebring. After the impact, the Silverado veered to the right where its front then struck the front of a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, which was stopped at the exit of the Salem Center, and which was being operated by Dawn R. Smith, 45, of Newark. All three vehicles came to rest at the entrance/exit of the Salem Center.

Dawn Smith, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, was treated at the scene by New Castle County Paramedics. She was then transported by ambulance to the Christiana Hospital where she was treated for her non-life threatening injuries.

Shakina Yates, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, was also treated at the scene by paramedics before being transported by ambulance to the Christiana Hospital where she was treated for her non-life threatening injuries. She was cited for Failure to Yield the Right of Way, Failing to Restrain a Child Under the Age of Eight in a Child Safety Seat, and Failure to Have Insurance Identification.

A 14-year-old male and a 3-year-old female passenger in Yates’ vehicle were removed from the scene by ambulance and transported to the A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children where they were treated for their non-life threatening injuries. A 9 year-old female and a 6-year-old female, who were also passengers in Yates’ vehicle, were removed from the scene by Delaware State Police Aviation (Trooper 4) and flown to the A.I. DuPont Hospital where they were treated for their serious injuries.

John Reilly was not injured.

Salem Church Road was closed in both directions for approximately one hour as the crash was investigated and cleared.

Released: 111716 0830

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North Wilmington- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit has identified the 37-year-old pedestrian killed in the fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred on US 202 at Woodlawn Road, Wilmington, on Monday, November 14, 2016, as Dijuana Collier, of Wilmington.

This crash remains under investigation.

Released: 111716 0725

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**Original Releases**

North Wilmington- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate a crash that has claimed the life of a 37-year-old Wilmington female which occurred last night in North Wilmington.

The initial investigation has determined that the crash occurred on Monday, November 14, 2016 at 8:17 p.m., as a 37-year-old female pedestrian was attempting to cross the southbound lanes of US 202 (Concord Pike) just north of Woodlawn Road in an eastbound direction. As the pedestrian entered the center lane, she stepped into the path of a 2014 Audi A6, which was traveling southbound on Concord Pike, and which was being operated by Edward Ballen, 73, of Wilmington. The force of the collision vaulted the victim onto the hood of the Audi. She then came to rest in the left hand lane of Rt. 202. Edward Ballen was able to bring his vehicle to a controlled stop in the center lane of the roadway.

The female pedestrian, who was not utilizing a marked cross walk and was dressed in dark clothing at the time of the crash, was treated at the scene by New Castle County Paramedics. She was then removed from the scene and transported by ambulance to the Christiana Hospital where she was subsequently pronounced dead. The victim’s name is being withheld pending the notification of her next of kin. Alcohol use on the part of the victim is being considered as a factor in this crash.

Edward Ballen, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, was not injured.

The southbound lanes of US 202 were closed for approximately 2 hours as the crash was investigated and cleared. However, traffic was permitted to use the right hand shoulder to proceed past the scene.

This crash remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit.

The Delaware State Police would like to offer these pedestrian safety tips to help educate and encourage pedestrians to make smart and safe decisions when walking near roadways. By following these basic safety tips and laws it is our hope that no other pedestrians lose their lives.

• Do not walk under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  Impaired walking is like impaired driving; it is illegal and can be deadly.
• Teach children not to run into the street after balls or other toys, and don’t allow them to cross alone until you’ve practiced the basics with them.
• Carry a flashlight or other reflective item when walking at night. It’s the law.
• Do not step into a cross walk if it will create a hazard to motorists. When it is clear to cross, continue to watch for traffic while crossing the street until you have safely reached the other side.
• Use sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far off the edge of the road as possible.
• Do not risk crossing outside of a cross walk or intersection just because it’s more convenient, especially on high-speed roadways. Cars cannot stop in time for you.
• Cross only at cross walks or intersections with signals or traffic signs. Look left, right, and left again.  Only start to cross when it’s clear.
• If your vehicle breaks down on an interstate or busy roadway, don’t leave your vehicle.  Instead call #77 or 911 for assistance.  Motorists can also call #77 to report a disabled vehicle they see on the roadways.
• If you are driving, be on the lookout for pedestrians near the roadway.

Released: 111516 0720

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**Original Release**

North Wilmington – The Delaware State Police are currently investigating a serious crash involving a pedestrian on Concord Pike (US 202) and Woodlawn Road that occurred around 8:17 p.m. this evening.  The pedestrian has been removed from the scene by EMS and transported to Christiana Medical Center with undetermined injuries.

Lincoln – The Delaware State Police are investigating the robbery of an elderly man as he was walking home from a local store.

The incident occurred around 10:15 a.m. today, Wednesday November 16, 2016 as a 79-year-old man was walking to his residence with groceries after leaving Kings Market located on Fleatown Road.  As the elderly male victim was walking along Baker Drive in the Cedar Village Development, he heard a male voice behind him ask if he needed assistance.  Before he was able to turn around, the subject struck him from behind, knocking him to the ground and removing his wallet before fleeing in an unknown direction.  The victim was able return to his residence on his own and call 9-1-1.  He was slightly injured in the attack and transported to an area hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect was only described as a black male (No further physical or clothing description available).

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact the Troop 4 Major Crimes Unit at 302-856-5850. 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.”

Released: 111616 1850

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Georgetown – The Delaware State Police are investigating a serious hit and run crash that occurred early this morning leaving a woman in critical condition.

Troopers responded to the entrance of County Seat Garden Mobile Home Development off Wilson Road around 5:48 a.m., Wednesday November 16, 2016, for a report of a woman lying on the side of the road.  Upon troopers and Emergency Medical Services arrival, a 56-year-old female from was treated on scene by paramedics and then airlifted to Beebe Healthcare where she is currently listed in critical condition.

Preliminary investigation suggests the woman was struck by an unknown vehicle along Oak Street in the area of Garden Circle within the development.  No vehicle description is available at this time.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact Corporal N. DeMalto of the Collision Reconstruction Unit at 302-703-3267. 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.”

Released: 111616 1815

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

The deer hunting season is here and the Delaware State Police would like to kindly remind the motoring public about the following tips:

1. In November, dusk and dawn = high deer-crossing times.
2. Do NOT feel more secure on highways just because they are better lit than back roads- speeds are higher and deer eyes are more difficult to see on highways- so drive cautiously and remain alert at all times.
3. Do NOT take your eyes off of the roadway. It’s that split second of changing the radio channel, or reaching for something that can make the difference to avoid a deer.

Released: 111616 1441

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Caution! Deer Crashes in Delaware

The Delaware State Police would like to remind motorists that the deer rut and hunting season is fast-approaching during the months of October and November; therefore, we would like to help prevent the spike in deer-related crashes that typically occur every fall in Delaware. Our news releases will go out to inform travelers three different times in the next few months starting in September until December. The friendly reminders will hopefully keep our drivers safe, more alert and will also lead them to slow down during this specific time of the year.

In 2015, there were 876 deer crashes investigated in Sussex County; 391 in Kent County and 524 in New Castle County. Majority of deer activity resulting in crashes occurred during dusk and dawn hour.

Overall, many of these animal or deer-related crashes occurred along the main corridors of SR 1, U.S. Route 13 and U.S. Route 113 during the 6:00 a.m. hour. During the 5:00 p.m. hour a significant number of crashes occurred on secondary roads.

Please be careful when traveling and keep a sharp eye out for deer crossing roadways, especially at dusk. Deer are even more active due to their annual mating season ‘rut’ in November with bucks chasing doe through fields, marshes and woods. The average white-tailed deer in Delaware weighs approximately 130 pounds, with larger bucks tipping the scales at 180 pounds or more. With the increased white-tailed deer activity, Delaware motorists are kindly reminded to stay alert and to be ready for a deer to dart out into the roadway from dusk to dawn.

A deer crash can result in serious injury or death to you or your passengers as well as serious damage to your vehicle.

Safety Tips That May Help Prevent Deer Crashes

• Attentive driving and slow speeds are the best ways to avoid deer crashes.
• Turn your headlights on at dawn and dusk and keep your eyes on the road, scanning the sides of the road as well as what’s ahead of you. When there is no oncoming traffic, switch to high beams to better reflect the eyes of deer on or near the roadway.
• To reduce your risk of injury in a collision, always wear your seatbelt.
• Be especially aware of any distractions.
• Watch for “Deer Crossing” signs that mark commonly-traveled areas, and be aware that deer typically cross between areas of cover, such as woods or where roads divide agricultural fields from woods.
• If you see a deer crossing the road ahead, slow down immediately and proceed with caution until you are past the crossing point. Deer usually travel in groups, so if you see one deer, there are likely to be others.
• Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten deer away. Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors to deter deer, as these devices have not been proven to reduce deer crashes.
• Do not swerve to miss a deer – brake and stay in your lane. Losing control of your vehicle, crossing into another lane, hitting an oncoming vehicle or leaving the roadway and hitting another obstacle such as a tree or a pole is likely to be much more serious than hitting a deer.
• If you hit a deer, stop at the scene, get your car off the road if possible and call police. Do not touch the animal or get too close. “A frightened and wounded deer can cause serious injury to a well-meaning person trying to ‘help.’ You could be bitten, kicked or even gored by a buck’s antlers. Keep a safe distance and wait for troopers to arrive.
• Highways and SR (state routes) are often lined with lights, which leads operators to believe they will be able to better see deer approaching roadways; however, due to the increase of speed on such roadways and the lights making deer eyes less visible, it’s likely that deer are actually MORE DIFFICULT to spot, when travelling on highways and SR’s.
• When travelling during the high deer crossing time frames, each driver should always be considering whether his/her speed would be acceptable IF a deer were to cross in front of him/her at any particular moment.
• Refrain from looking down, or at something else when you are travelling, especially during these critical time frames, for it’s only a split second that can make the difference between striking a deer and being able to slow down in time to avoid a deer.

Rehoboth – The Delaware State Police are investigating the attempted robbery of a 66-year-old female at her residence.

The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday November 15, 2016 when a male subject knocked on the door of a residence in the 100 block of Truitt Avenue.  When the 66-year-old female homeowner answered the door, she was confronted by the male brandishing an unknown type handgun.  The suspect demanded the woman’s purse and when she went to retrieve it, the suspect fled before she returned to the door.  It is unknown if the suspect departed upon hearing the victim’s 34-year-old son who was in the residence at that time.  The female was uninjured in this incident.

The suspect was described as a black male, 25-30 years of age, 5’04”-5’06” tall, 140-160 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes, wearing a dark jacket, grey hooded sweatshirt, and a scarf covering his face (No further physical or clothing description).  The suspect was armed with an unknown type handgun.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact Detective K. Archer at 302-752-3791. 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.”

Released: 111616 1210

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Bear- Delaware State Police Homicide Unit detectives are continuing their search for the suspect involved in a homicide which occurred one year ago at a Bear area car wash.

Detectives continue to search for Bobby L. Taylor, 33, who is wanted in connection with the shooting death of Aloysisus Taylor, 41, at the American Car Wash located at 1921 Pulaski Highway, Bear, on Friday, November 27, 2015. Bobby Taylor has ties to the Wilmington and New Castle area, however, his whereabouts are unknown at this time.

Bobby Taylor (pictured) is described as being 5’09” tall, weighs approximately 160 lbs., and has black hair and brown eyes. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

If anyone has any information as to the location of Bobby Taylor, they are asked to contact Detective Daniel Grassi at 302-365-8441.

Delaware Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1000 for information leading to the arrest of Bobby Taylor. Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers by dialing 1-800-TIP-3333.

Released: 111516 1255

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**Previous Releases**

**Update #2** 

Troopers Continue to Search for Suspect in Bear Homicide  

Bear, DE- Delaware State Police Homicide Unit detectives continue to seek the assistance of the public in locating the suspect wanted for the murder of a 41 year old Wilmington man that occurred at an area car wash in November of last year.

Homicide Unit detectives are continuing their search for Bobby L. Taylor, 32, of New Castle, who is wanted in connection with the shooting death of Aloysisus Taylor that occurred at the American Car Wash, located at 1921 Pulaski Highway, Bear, on Friday, November 27, 2015. Detectives have obtained warrants charging Bobby Taylor with Murder 1^st Degree, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, and Possession of a Firearm by a Person Previously Convicted of a Felony. An exhaustive search has been conducted for Bobby Taylor, who is believed to still be residing in the New Castle County area; however, detectives have not been able to locate him.

Bobby Taylor is described as being 5’09” tall, weighs approximately 160 lbs., and has black hair and brown eyes. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

If anyone has any information about the location of Bobby Taylor, they are asked to contact Detective Daniel Grassi at 302-365-8441. 

Delaware Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1000 for information leading to the arrest of Bobby Taylor. Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers by dialing 1-800-TIP-3333.

Information can also be provided via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 011916 1220

**Original Releases Below** 

**Update** 

Troopers Conducting Homicide Investigation 

Bear, DE- The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is continuing their investigation into the shooting death of a 41 year old male that occurred this morning in Bear.

The initial investigation has determined that the incident occurred at approximately 8:40 a.m. this morning as Aloysisus Taylor, 41, of Wilmington, was seated in the driver’s seat of a vehicle in the rear parking lot of the American Car Wash, located at 1921 Pulaski Highway, Bear. It was at this time that he was approached by Bobby L. Taylor, 32, of New Castle, who then produced a handgun and fired one shot at the victim through the open vehicle window, striking him in the torso. Bobby Taylor then fled from the scene on foot in an unknown direction. Aloysisus Taylor was treated at the scene by New Castle County Paramedics and then transported to the Christiana Hospital where he subsequently succumbed to his injuries.

Through multiple interviews, detectives were able to identify Bobby Taylor as the suspect in this incident. It was also learned that Bobby Taylor and Aloysisus Taylor (no relation) are both employed at the car wash. Detectives have obtained warrants charging Bobby Taylor with Murder 1^st Degree, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, and Possession of a Firearm by a Person Previously Convicted of a Felony.

Bobby Taylor is described as being 5’09” tall, 160 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident or knows the location of Bobby Taylor, they are asked to contact Detective Daniel Grassi at 302-365-8441. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 112715 2050

**Original Release** 

Troopers Conducting Homicide Investigation 

Bear, DE- The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is currently conducting an investigation into the shooting of a male subject which occurred at an area car wash this morning.

The investigation began this morning, Friday, November 27, 2015, at approximately 8:40 a.m., as troopers were told to respond to the American Car Wash located at 1921 Pulaski Highway, Bear. Upon their arrival a male victim was located in the rear of the business suffering from a gunshot wound to his upper body. Resuscitative efforts were then performed by responders from the New Castle County Paramedics who transported the victim to the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center. The victim, however, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The Delaware Division of Forensic Science was contacted and an autopsy is expected to be conducted within the next couple of days to determine the exact cause and manner of death. The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time pending the notification of his next of kin.

The investigation by the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is in its early stages. No further specific details are being released at this time.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 302-739-5939. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 112715 1110