The incident occurred at approximately 8:00 p.m. Thursday, November 16, 2017, as a 37-year-old Laurel man was operating a 2000 Dodge Dakota traveling eastbound on Laurel Road (SR 24), approaching the intersection at Jestice Farm Road (CR 449A). A 2013 Infiniti JX35 operated by a 31-year-old Laurel man was traveling westbound, approaching the Dakota.
As the two vehicles converged, the Dakota for unknown reasons left its lane of travel, entering into the westbound lane directly into the path of the Infiniti. In an attempt to avoid a collision, the operator of the Infiniti swerved to the right, exiting the roadway into a field. The Dakota traveled through the westbound lane and shoulder, striking the front center of the Infiniti in the field with its front center. After impact, the Dakota was forced into a clockwise rotation, coming to rest partially on the shoulder. The Infiniti came to rest in the same area as the impact, in the field.
The operator of the Dakota who was not properly restrained, was removed from the scene and transported by EMS to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
The operator of the Infiniti who was properly restrained, was removed from the scene and transported by EMS to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital where he was treated and released for minor injuries.
A 32-year-old female passenger in the Infiniti was also transported to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital where she has been admitted with non-life threatening injuries.
The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing their investigation into the crash. It is unknown if alcohol or drugs were a factor on behalf of the driver of the Dakota. Laurel Road was shut down for approximately 3 hours while the crash was investigated and cleared. No charges have been filed at this time.
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@state.de.us.
How many people die in Sussex county each week from motor vehicle related incidents.
ReplyDeleteIt's dangerous up there!