Troopers Investigate Fatal Motorcycle Crash – Harrington

Harrington, Delaware – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a motorcycle that occurred today north of Harrington.

The initial investigation has determined the incident occurred at approximately 12:07 p.m., Saturday, June 22, 2019, on Hopkins Cemetery Road (CR 289) west of South DuPont Highway (U.S. 13) north of Harrington. A 2015 Jeep Wrangler operated by a 49-year-old male of Harrington was traveling westbound on Hopkins Cemetery Road preparing to turn left onto a private driveway on Hopkins Cemetery Road. A 2015 Harley-Davidson motorcycle operated by a 57-year-old male of Harrington was traveling eastbound on Hopkins Cemetery Road toward South DuPont Highway (US 13). The Jeep Wrangler turned left into the path of the motorcycle. The motorcycle operator attempted to apply his brakes but was unable to avoid the collision. The motorcycle collided with the right side of the Jeep near the passenger side door. Both the motorcycle operator and passenger were both ejected from the motorcycle.

Kenneth Dear, 57, operator of the motorcycle and his passenger Karen Dear, 56 both of Harrington were not wearing helmets. They were transported to Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus where they succumbed to their injuries. Speed does not appear to be a factor on behalf of the motorcycle.

The driver and passenger of the Jeep Wrangler were also transported to Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus for minor injuries. Both were treated and released. Impairment does not appear to be a factor in this collision.

The roadway in the area of the crash was closed for approximately five hours while the investigation was completed and the roadway was cleared.

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)