Wilmington- Delaware State Police arrested 47-year-old George Smith 3rd of Wilmington, for murder and related charges following a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred in May of 2020.
The crash occurred on May 10, 2020, at approximately 11:51 p.m., when a blue Toyota passenger vehicle was traveling northbound on DE-495 in the center lane approximately 1 mile south of Edgemoor Rd. A 2016 Dodge Challenger, operated by George Smith 3rd, was also traveling northbound DE-495 in the center lane, rapidly approaching the Toyota. The Dodge Challenger failed to maneuver around the Toyota, and the front bumper of the Dodge Challenger struck the rear bumper of the Toyota, which caused the gas tank of the Toyota to rupture. After impact, the Toyota continued out of control, exited the northbound lanes and down the embankment as it was engulfed in flames. Once the vehicle came to rest, the female operator and only occupant in the vehicle, became entrapped within the burning vehicle. The operator of the Toyota was pronounced deceased at the scene.
On June 9, 2021, after a thorough investigation, George Smith 3rd was taken into custody at his residence in Wilmington without incident. He was transported to Troop 1 where he was charged with the following crimes:
- Murder Second Degree (Felony)
- Reckless Endanger First Degree (Felony)
- Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
- Speeding in Excess of the Posted Limits
Smith was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $1,066,001 cash bond.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1800 842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.