FileBridgeville – The Delaware State Police Aviation Unit has arrested a 31-year-old Milford man after he fled from the scene of an automobile crash, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier,
Fournier said the incident occurred around 4:00 p.m. Monday May 15, 2017 when a male subject was observed by witnesses operating a 2010 Toyota Corolla eastbound on Seashore Highway (SR18/404) approaching Coverdale Road.
The Corolla was passing vehicles on the right shoulder when it traveled off the south side of the road and struck a ditch, said Fournier. The car then overturned multiple times before coming to a stop after striking a tree. The operator, and lone occupant, was then seen exiting the vehicle and fleeing southbound on foot through a wooded area and into a field.
Trooper 2 was flying in the area due to a pursuit that had been initiated by Milton Police Department with the Toyota Corolla, but was discontinued by the pursuing officers approximately five minutes earlier. The helicopter crew was informed of the crash and located the operator running through an open field. The trooper pilot was able to lower the aircraft into a position to block the suspect’s egress and the trooper medic was able to expeditiously exit the helicopter and place the subject on the ground before the two person crew handcuffed him and took him into custody without further incident.
The operator, who was identified as Steven D. Martin, 31 of Milford, was turned over to Milton Police Department to face charges stemming from their pursuit. He was also charged by state troopers for Reckless Driving, Failure to Have Insurance in Possession, and Passing on the Right. He was arraigned on those charges and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $350.00 secured bond.