Harrington- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a fatal crash involving a single vehicle that occurred last evening, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe.
Jaffe said the crash occurred on July 31, 2020, at approximately 6:36 p.m., when a 1996 Ford Explorer was traveling eastbound on Flatiron Road towards Hammondtown Road. For unknown reasons the vehicle exited the roadway where it continued to travel in a shallow, grassy swale. After exiting the roadway, the vehicle overturned ejecting both the operator and the passenger.
The operator, 34-year-old Frederick Wildt of Ellendale was not properly restrained. He was transported to the Sussex Bayhealth Hospital where he was treated and released with non-life-threatening injuries. Jaffe said Wildt displayed signs of impairment and a DUI investigation ensued. Wildt was transported back to Troop 3 where he was charged with the following:
Vehicular Homicide Second Degree Driving Under the Influence (Felony)
Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol
Failed to remain within a single lane
Driver must wear properly adjusted and fastened seatbelt
Driver of MV Shall Properly Secure all Passengers 16 yrs or older with Seatbelts
Wildt was arraigned before the Justice of the Peace Court and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $10250.00 secured bond.
The passenger, a 69-year-old male from Denton, MD, was not properly restrained. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. His name is being withheld at this time pending the notification of next of kin.
The roadway was closed for approximately 4.5 hours while the crash was investigated and cleared.
Breaking Report
Harrington – Rescue crews from the Farmington and Harrington Fire Companies along with Trooper 2 and Delaware State Police have responded to the 1500 block of Flatiron Road for reports of a vehicle accident with ejection.
Initial reports from the scene indicate that at least one patient has been ejected from a vehicle. Command has ordered Flatiron Road closed in both directions.
Two patients are reported in very serious condition.
Sussex County medics are also responding to assist.
Developing