Wilmington – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is currently investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian that occurred this morning, according to State Police Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale.
Hale said that the crash occurred at approximately 8:59 a.m. this morning as Charles Culnane, 90, of Wilmington, was attempting to cross Shipley Road in a westbound direction in the area of Baynard Boulevard.
As Culnane entered the southbound lane of Shipley Road in or near the marked cross walk, he stepped directly into the path of a 2000 Mazda Protégé, which was being operated by Robert Luff, 21, of Wilmington, and which was traveling southbound on Shipley Road, according to Hale.
Luff attempted to stop his vehicle in order to avoid striking Culnane, however, he was unable to. The front of the Mazda then struck Culnane, vaulting him into the windshield. He was then carried for a short distance before falling off of the vehicle and landing on the side of the road. Luff was able to bring his vehicle to a controlled stop at the scene.
Charles Culnane was treated at the scene by New Castle County Paramedics. He was then transported by ambulance to the Christiana Hospital where he was subsequently pronounced dead from his injuries.
Robert Luff, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, was not injured. Alcohol or drug use on the part of Culnane and Luff is not being considered as a factor in this crash.
This crash remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit.
Shipley Road between Baynard Boulevard and Weldin Road was closed for approximately 3 hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.