Update #1 On Bridgeville Fatal Crash - Two Confirmed Deceased

Bridgeville – The Delaware State Police are providing additional details surrounding the fatal crash that occurred earlier tonight on US 13. It has been confirmed that two female juveniles have died in the crash. Their ages have not been confirmed as of the time of this release.

Investigators have learned that a 1997 Dodge Neon was reported stolen from a residence in the 8100 block of Gray Stone Lane, Greenwood shortly after 9:00 pm. In this case it was reported the vehicle was parked in the driveway of the home with the engine running and doors unsecured. An unknown subject entered the vehicle and fled the area.

Investigators learned the stolen Dodge was traveling southbound on US 13 in the left lane at a high rate of speed when it approached a 1997 Ford Van that was occupied by 13 persons. The van was registered to the Grace-N-Mercy Ministries in Georgetown and was also traveling southbound in the left lane ahead of the Dodge.

Preliminary investigation reveals the Dodge, traveling at a high rate of speed, came upon the van and attempted to swerve to the right just prior to impacting the van when it struck the rear of the van casing the van to lose control and enter the center grass median. The van then overturned eventually coming to rest in the northbound lanes on its passenger side.

As a result two juvenile female passengers were killed and 10 other persons were injured and taken to area hospitals for injuries sustained in the crash. Their status is currently unknown. Witnesses informed investigators they observed a single male subject exit the Dodge and run westbound from the crash site into a wooded area. The only description provided was a white male or Hispanic male.

An area search conducted by DSP and Maryland State Police Helicopters, K-9’s and several municipal police officers proved futile as they were unable to locate the fleeing subject. The Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding the operator of the Dodge Neon to contact investigators at 302.645.8221, 911 or Crime Stoppers at 1.800.TIP.3333.

Additional details will be released tomorrow morning. The roadway is expected to be reopened at 12:30 am.