Newark – The Delaware State Police are continuing to investigate a fatal crash involving a pedestrian that occurred at approximately 8:08 p.m., Wednesday, March 18, 2020, on Rt. 40 in the area of Perch Creek, Newark, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin.
Austin said the initial investigation has determined that a 2006 Chrysler Sebring, being operated by a 26-year-old Bear woman, was traveling westbound on Route 40 in the right lane approaching the intersection with Perch Creek Drive. A 2012 Kia Sportage, being operated by a 67-year-old Oxford, PA woman was traveling westbound on Route 40 in the left lane, slightly behind the Chrysler. Both vehicles were proceeding through the intersection with a green light. A pedestrian began to cross the westbound lanes of Route 40 from north to south in the area of the crosswalk located on the west side of the Route 40/ Perch Creek Drive intersection, and walked directly into the path of the Chrysler and was struck, according to Austin. The pedestrian was then thrown into the path of the Kia and struck a second time. Both vehicles came to a controlled stop and remained at the scene.
The pedestrian, a 21-year-old New Castle woman, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The investigation determined that she was wearing all dark, non-reflective clothing and was not carrying a light, said Austin. It was also determined that she was crossing the roadway against the pedestrian crossing signals. Identification is pending notification of next of kin.
Both drivers wear wearing their seatbelts and were not injured.
Route 40 westbound was closed for approximately 2.5 hours while the scene was investigated and cleared.
