WILMINGTON, DE – A tragic motor vehicle collision in Wilmington yesterday, has claimed the lives of two individuals. Delaware State Police are now investigating the incident, which involved a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta and a 2023 Dodge Ram 1500.
The collision occurred at approximately 4:44 PM on Philadelphia Pike when the Volkswagen slowed to a stop in front of the White Glove Car Wash. The Dodge Ram, which was traveling at a high rate of speed, struck the Volkswagen as it attempted to make a left turn into the car wash’s parking lot. The impact pushed the Volkswagen off the roadway and into the parking lot, where it collided with a parked 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300.
The 42-year-old male driver of the Volkswagen from Chester, PA, and the 34-year-old female passenger from Wilmington, DE, were both pronounced deceased at the scene. Neither of them was properly restrained at the time of the crash. The identification of the victims is pending notification to the next of kin.
The 29-year-old male driver of the Ram from Philadelphia, PA, and his front passenger, who were also not properly restrained, sustained minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital. At this time, impairment does not appear to be a factor in the accident, and no charges have been filed. However, the investigation is ongoing.
Philadelphia Pike was closed between Edgemoor Road and Hillcrest Avenue for approximately 5 hours during the investigation and cleanup process. Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit is asking anyone who witnessed the collision to contact Corporal/2 M. Calio at 302-365-8483.