Newark, Del. — A tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when a speeding U-Haul van, attempting to evade law enforcement, crashed, resulting in the death of a University of Delaware student and injuries to seven others. The collision occurred around 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of Main and Haines streets, just steps away from the university campus.
According to police reports, the U-Haul was first spotted on the 200 block of East Main Street. The vehicle, which was due to be returned to the rental agency by March 18, became the focus of police attention when its occupants fled upon encounter. Witnesses reported that the driver maneuvered the van onto a sidewalk, colliding with a marked police vehicle before speeding away.
In their pursuit, officers chose not to follow the van as it headed west on East Main Street at an alarming speed. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic when the van struck two pedestrians standing near a parked vehicle. The U-Haul continued its reckless path, crashing into several parked cars before becoming incapacitated.
The severity of the incident left one pedestrian dead at the scene. Local authorities confirmed the victim was a University of Delaware student. The second pedestrian accompanying the victim sustained serious injuries, while six others at the crash site experienced non-life-threatening wounds.
The university released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss and offered condolences to the families of those affected. “This is a terrible tragedy for everyone in our UD community,” officials stated. They emphasized the need for support and healing among students and staff, urging individuals to seek assistance as required.
Local residents were visibly shaken by the event. Bashar Albarouki, co-owner of a nearby restaurant, remarked on the disturbing nature of the incident, noting the unexpected speed at which the van approached. “It broke my heart. I heard the bang, but I didn’t know people could drive this fast during such a busy time,” he said.
Herissa Monsalud, a senior from Temple University, expressed her distress, stating it was disheartening to witness the aftermath of such a tragic event. “It makes you think about how quickly things can change,” she added.
Authorities have detained both suspects who were inside the U-Haul at the time of the crash. Reports indicate that the driver suffered significant injuries from the incident. As investigations are underway, the Newark Police Department has not yet released the identities of the victims or those detained, pending family notifications.
Main Street, a bustling thoroughfare, was closed to the public for several hours as investigators gathered evidence and began the process of examining what led to the crash. Authorities have since reopened the area but continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.
In a follow-up statement, university officials reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the campus community and collaborating with city and state representatives to enhance safety measures in the area.