Dover, DE (June 11, 2025) – A fatal crash unfolded in the early hours of June 10 in Dover when a pedestrian was struck and killed while walking along Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway.
According to Delaware State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 2:21 a.m. A 63-year-old man from Berlin, Maryland, was driving a Jeep Cherokee northbound in the right lane of the highway near the intersection with White Oak Road. At the same time, a 39-year-old man from Dover was walking in the vehicle’s path. The pedestrian, who was wearing dark, non-reflective clothing and did not have a light, was hit in the right northbound lane.
The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are currently withholding his name until his family has been notified. The driver of the Jeep remained at the scene and was uninjured. Following the collision, the roadway was closed for approximately three and a half hours while members of the Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit conducted an investigation. The scene has since been cleared, and the crash remains under investigation.
We offer our sympathies to the family of the victim who lost their life in this accident.
Pedestrian Accidents in Delaware
Delaware has experienced a concerning number of pedestrian accidents in recent years. Data from the Delaware Office of Highway Safety highlights a rising trend in pedestrian fatalities, with dozens of lives lost annually. These incidents often occur during low visibility hours and frequently involve pedestrians not using crosswalks or wearing reflective clothing.
Here’s a closer look at some key issues surrounding pedestrian accidents in Delaware:
- Low Visibility Conditions: Many pedestrian accidents happen during the early morning or late night hours. Poor lighting, combined with dark clothing, can make it extremely difficult for drivers to see individuals on or near the road.
- Lack of Sidewalks and Safe Crossing Points: In some areas, pedestrians are forced to walk along highways or roads with no sidewalks or marked crossings, increasing the risk of being struck by vehicles traveling at high speeds.
- Driver Distraction: Motorists distracted by cell phones, GPS systems, or other factors may not notice pedestrians in time to avoid a collision, especially in areas where foot traffic is unexpected.
- Impaired Walking or Driving: Alcohol or drug impairment—on the part of either the driver or the pedestrian—can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, all of which are critical to avoiding accidents.
- Failure to Follow Pedestrian Laws: Both drivers and pedestrians have a responsibility to follow traffic laws. When these rules are ignored, it can lead to tragic consequences, especially in areas with high-speed limits or limited lighting.
If your loved one has died as a result of a pedestrian accident, it’s vital to speak with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. Preserving evidence and gathering witness statements early can make a significant difference. A knowledgeable attorney can help clarify your legal rights and assist in pursuing compensation for injuries, medical bills, lost income, and more. Don’t delay getting the answers and support you need.
Murphy & Landon is ready to help. Our team of trial attorneys brings over three decades of experience fighting for clients across Delaware. We’ve taken on some of the most difficult personal injury cases and secured record-setting verdicts, including in nursing home negligence and class action lawsuits. We offer every client personalized attention and the determination to pursue justice no matter the opponent. Whether in negotiation or trial, we aim to deliver meaningful outcomes. We offer free consultations and are here when you need us most. Call us today at 302-472-8112 to get started.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Contact Murphy & Landon if you locate any inaccurate information. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at this accident scene.
