Bear, DE (September 30, 2025) – A woman lost her life and another person was injured in a motorcycle crash on Sunday, September 28.
The collision happened around 10 a.m. on Route 40 near Fir Avenue. Investigators say a Chevrolet Malibu, driven by 38-year-old Omar Mendoza of New Castle, crossed into the wrong lanes after failing to stop at a stop sign. The vehicle traveled diagonally across the westbound lanes and struck a Suzuki motorcycle.
Both the motorcycle’s driver and passenger were thrown from the bike. The passenger, a 44-year-old woman from New Castle, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her name has not yet been released, pending notification of her family.
The motorcyclist, a 36-year-old man from Bear, was taken to a local hospital. Authorities report his injuries are non-life-threatening. Mendoza sustained minor injuries and was transported to the hospital. Following treatment, he was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide and related traffic offenses. He is being held on a $10,000 cash bond.
Investigators closed the roadway for several hours while documenting the scene. The case remains under active review.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased victim. We also wish those hurt a fast recovery.
Motorcycle Accidents in Delaware
Motorcycle accidents in Delaware continue to present serious dangers for riders and their passengers. Because motorcycles offer little
protection, collisions often result in severe or even fatal injuries. In 2023, the Delaware Office of Highway Safety reported over 500 motorcycle crashes statewide, with dozens of them resulting in fatalities.
Bear, Wilmington, and other high-traffic areas along Rte 40 and I-95 see a concentration of these incidents. Common causes include distracted driving, drivers failing to yield, and impaired driving. In this recent crash, investigators say the driver crossed into oncoming lanes, an action that highlights the risks motorcyclists face when other drivers fail to follow traffic rules.
When a motorcycle accident occurs, victims and families often face overwhelming medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. In cases involving fatalities, families may pursue claims with the help of a wrongful death lawyer. A Delaware wrongful death lawyer can investigate the circumstances, preserve critical evidence, and hold negligent drivers accountable.
Compensation may cover hospital bills, rehabilitation, lost income, and in fatal cases, funeral costs and loss of companionship. While financial recovery cannot undo the pain of such a tragedy, it can provide security during an uncertain time. Motorcycle crashes often involve disputes with insurance companies, which may attempt to reduce or deny claims. Having an experienced accident attorney in Delaware can help ensure that injured victims and grieving families receive fair treatment.
Even in cases where the at-fault driver faces criminal charges, the civil process remains separate. This means victims or their families can still pursue a personal injury claim regardless of the criminal case outcome. Legal representation, such as the one we offer and provide at Murphy & Landon, ensures that the rights of those impacted remain a priority, especially when dealing with complex laws and aggressive insurance defense teams.
If you or someone you care about was hurt in a crash in Bear or anywhere in Delaware, don’t wait to get help. Call Murphy & Landon at 302-472-8100 today for a free consultation.
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 the accident scene.
