Townsend, DE (February 10, 2026) – Delaware State Police released new details following a fatal two-vehicle accident reported Sunday night in Townsend.
Troopers responded around 11:40 p.m. on Sunday, February 8, to the intersection of Dupont Pkwy and Summit Bridge Rd. Officers found two damaged vehicles and several injured occupants.
Investigators said a Nissan Altima traveled southbound in the right lane of Dupont Pkwy. At the same time, a Toyota Sienna sat in the northbound left-turn lane. The Toyota attempted a left turn onto Summit Bridge Rd. The Nissan struck the Toyota head-on.
Police identified the deceased passenger as 69-year-old Laura Thomas of Magnolia, Delaware. She rode in the front passenger seat of the Toyota. Paramedics transported her to a local hospital, where doctors pronounced her dead.
The Toyota driver, a 43-year-old woman from Dover, suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Three additional passengers from the Toyota also received hospital care for minor injuries.
The Nissan driver, a 50-year-old man from Townsend, sustained serious injuries. Emergency crews transported him to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Authorities continue to examine vehicle movements and contributing factors. Investigators have not announced any charges at this time. We share our hopes for healing with everyone injured as the investigation continues.
Why Left-Turn Crashes Often Lead to Serious Injuries
Left-turn crashes often cause severe injuries because vehicles collide at direct angles. These impacts transfer force into the passenger area. Many occur at intersections where drivers judge gaps and oncoming speed.
National data shows intersection crashes remain a common source of serious harm. Left turns place drivers and passengers closer to impact points. Even moderate speeds can cause significant trauma during these collisions.
People injured in left-turn crashes may experience head injuries, chest trauma, or broken bones. Some injuries appear immediately. Others develop hours later, including stiffness or internal pain. Medical evaluations help identify issues early and guide follow-up care.
A car accident lawyer in Delaware can help explain options after this type of crash. Legal guidance may include reviewing reports, medical records, and insurance communications. An attorney can explain what types of compensation may be available, depending on the situation.
If you have questions after a serious crash, we can help explain available options. Our team of Delaware personal injury lawyers at Murphy & Landon has extensive experience reviewing crash-related questions. We can discuss how documentation, insurance communication, and medical bills may apply. To learn more, contact Murphy & Landon at 302-472-8112 to talk about your situation.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Murphy & Landon if you find 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.
