Newark, DE — A tragic four-car collision in Newark, Delaware claimed the life of a 60-year-old man on the morning of Saturday, November 29, authorities confirmed. The crash occurred at approximately 9:45 a.m. on Salem Church Road, just south of the I-95 overpass.
Crash Involves Multiple Vehicles and a Fatal Head-On Collision
According to the Delaware State Police, the incident began when an unknown vehicle attempted to pass a northbound Honda Civic by driving into the southbound lane. At the same time, a Chevrolet Malibu, traveling southbound, entered the northbound lanes. The Malibu then overcorrected, crossing back and forth into lanes as the unknown car approached.
The Malibu collided head-on with the Honda Civic, resulting in the death of the 60-year-old driver from Middletown, Delaware. Police are withholding his identity until his family has been notified.
Additional Vehicles Damaged
Following the collision with the Civic, the 21-year-old driver of the Malibu, a resident of Dover, Delaware, crashed into a Subaru Impreza and a Hyundai Elantra in the northbound lane. Fortunately, the drivers of the Subaru and Hyundai were not injured. The Malibu driver was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
The unknown vehicle that initiated the dangerous passing maneuver did not crash and fled the scene, leaving investigators searching for its involvement in the fatal incident, as per the reports.
Roadway Closure and Investigation
The crash forced the closure of Salem Church Road for approximately four hours while authorities investigated the scene. Delaware State Police are working to reconstruct the sequence of events to determine responsibility and contributing factors in the collision.
Officials are urging anyone with information regarding the unknown vehicle to come forward to aid in the ongoing investigation.
Community Impact
This fatal crash serves as a reminder of the dangers of improper passing maneuvers and lane violations on busy roadways. Authorities emphasize the importance of safe driving practices, particularly in areas with mixed traffic and heavy vehicle flow. Residents are encouraged to report unsafe driving behavior to local law enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.
How can the community work together to prevent dangerous driving and fatal accidents like this in Newark?
Share your tips, insights, or condolences for the victims in the comments below.
