The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating a fatal motorcycle collision that occurred early Sunday evening north of Middletown, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier.
Fournier said the crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. Sunday, October 17, 2021 as a 2007 Suzuki GSX motorcycle being operated by a 20-year-old Middletown man was traveling southbound in the left thru lane of Summit Bridge Road (SR 896) just south of Victoria Drive. A 2015 Chevy Malibu, operated by a 27-year-old female from Middletown, was initially stopped in the left turn lane of SR 896 northbound to enter the Valero gas station (4434 Summit Bridge Road).
At this location, a traffic signal controls vehicular traffic in and out of the Shopping Center, according to Fournier. As the motorcycle approached the intersection, the traffic signal displayed a solid circular green light. At the same time, the Chevy Malibu initiated a left turn and drove into the path of the motorcycle said Fournier.
The operator of the motorcycle dropped the motorcycle prior to crashing into the passenger side of the Malibu. As a result, the rider slid under the vehicle and became trapped. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The 27-year-old female operator of the Chevy Malibu was properly restrained and uninjured in the crash.
Fournier said that alcohol involvement on behalf of the operator of the Chevy Malibu is unknown. Speed on behalf of the motorcyclist may have been a contributing factor as well added Fournier.
Summit Bridge Road (SR896) between Bethel Church Road and Boyds Corner Road was closed for approximately 3.5 hours while the crash was investigated and cleared.