Newark, DE (November 6, 2024) – A fatal pedestrian crash occurred late Tuesday night on Salem Church Rd, claiming the life of one man and leaving another hospitalized. The tragic incident, reported by Delaware State Police, took place shortly before 10:00 p.m. on southbound Salem Church Rd, just south of Arthurs Dr and near Becks Pond.
According to Delaware State Police, a 59-year-old man from Newark was hit while walking along the roadway. The car, an Infiniti G37, was traveling southbound when it veered off the road and hit the pedestrian. The force of the impact caused the car to lose control, hit a culvert, and overturn several times before coming to a stop in a nearby driveway. Both the pedestrian and the driver of the vehicle were ejected from the car during the violent crash. Tragically, the 59-year-old pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, a 31-year-old man also from Newark, was transported by emergency medical services to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. His condition was stabilized, and he was later reported to be in stable condition. Authorities have not yet confirmed which individual was operating the vehicle at the time of the accident, and the investigation is ongoing.
Firefighters from the local volunteer fire department were called to the scene to assist in the extrication of both the driver and the vehicle from the wreckage. Delaware State Police, along with local emergency response teams, worked together to control traffic, secure the scene, and conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. At the time of reporting, officials were still gathering details to understand the full circumstances surrounding the collision.
This incident is the latest in a series of tragic accidents in Delaware involving pedestrians, highlighting the persistent risks faced by individuals walking near busy roadways. Local authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant, especially in areas where pedestrians may be present, and to exercise caution in adverse road conditions or at night.
The community is mourning the loss of the pedestrian, and our thoughts and condolences go out to the victim’s family during this incredibly difficult time. In addition, our hearts are with the driver and his loved ones, wishing for his speedy recovery.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Newark
Fatal pedestrian accidents have become an increasing concern in Newark and across Delaware, with fatalities on the rise in recent years. According to the Delaware Office of Highway Safety, 2023 recorded the highest number of pedestrian deaths in the state since 2017. In Newark, a city known for its dense traffic and urban growth, pedestrian-related accidents make up a significant portion of the overall traffic fatalities. Six pedestrian deaths were reported in Newark in 2023 alone, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures such as improved lighting, better crosswalks, and stronger enforcement of traffic laws.
Local authorities, including the Delaware State Police, are actively working to address these concerns, especially in high-traffic areas like Salem Church Rd. These areas are particularly hazardous due to factors like insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, speeding vehicles, and poor visibility at night. In Newark, pedestrians face increased risks as they share the road with fast-moving cars, and many drivers fail to yield or remain distracted while behind the wheel. Both law enforcement and the public are calling for greater awareness from drivers and pedestrians alike to reduce the risk of such preventable tragedies.
When a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, the surviving family members may choose to file a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal action taken by the family or loved ones of a person who has died as a result of someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. In the case of a fatal pedestrian accident, the family may pursue a lawsuit against the driver if their actions, such as speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield, were determined to have caused the death.
In Delaware, wrongful death claims can be filed by immediate family members—such as spouses, children, or parents—as well as dependents who rely on the deceased for financial support. Compensation in wrongful death cases can include medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship. The amount of compensation varies depending on the specifics of the case, including the degree of negligence and the financial impact on the survivors. Families of victims are encouraged to consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney to fully understand their legal options and pursue fair compensation.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal Newark pedestrian accident, a knowledgeable Delaware wrongful death attorney from Murphy & Landon is prepared to help. With a steadfast commitment to client advocacy and a proven track record of success, Murphy & Landon offers personalized legal representation to individuals injured due to negligence.
To speak with an attorney about your fatal Newark pedestrian accident, call Murphy & Landon at (302) 472-8112 to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is equipped to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights and interests are vigorously defended.
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.
