Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred Wednesday morning in Milford, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper.
Pepper said on July 28, 2021, at approximately 9:00 a.m., a 2009 Toyota Prius was traveling northbound on Canterbury Road approaching Deer Valley Road. A 2006 Peterbilt Truck Tractor pulling a trailer was traveling southbound on Canterbury Road, just southeast of Deer Valley Road. As the Toyota Prius traveled northbound, it crossed the double solid yellow line and partially entered the opposing travel lane.
The driver of the Peterbilt, a 64-year-old Milford man, was unable to avoid a collision, and the left front of the Peterbilt collided with the left front of the Prius within the southbound lane, according to Pepper. Following the initial impact, the Prius was redirected into a northwest direction. As the Toyota Prius rotated, the driver, a 33-year-old Lincoln, Delaware woman was not seat belted and was ejected from the vehicle. The Toyota came to rest on the grass shoulder of the northbound lane.
Following the initial impact, the Peterbilt Truck Tractor sustained severe damage and the operator was unable to steer the truck or trailer. The Truck eventually exited the southbound lane, traveled across the northbound lane, and off the northeast edge of the roadway. The truck struck several trees and came to rest in a wooded area just off the roadway.
The driver of the Prius was pronounced deceased on scene. Identification is pending notification to next of kin.
The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured in the collision.
This collision remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit. Anyone with information should contact Sgt. John Wheatley by calling 302-697-4454.
Canterbury Road will remain closed for an extended period due to roadway repairs and cleanup.
