Elderly driver killed after vehicle veers off road and bursts into flames near Georgetown
Georgetown, DE — A single-vehicle crash that ended in flames has left an 81-year-old man dead after his SUV veered off a major roadway and struck multiple objects before catching fire.
The crash occurred around 12:00 p.m. on April 17 along Dupont Boulevard, north of McColley’s Chapel Road. Delaware State Police said a Ford Explorer traveling southbound gradually left the roadway, striking a mailbox, a road sign, and then a large embankment.
Following the impact, the vehicle caught fire. Bystanders pulled the driver, identified as 81-year-old Michael Jeffra of Georgetown, from the vehicle and attempted lifesaving measures at the scene.
Jeffra was transported to an area hospital, where he later died. Investigators initially believed a medical emergency may have caused the crash, but further findings determined his death resulted from injuries sustained in the collision.
The roadway was closed for approximately two hours as troopers investigated and cleared the scene.
The Delaware State Police Troop 5 continues to investigate the crash. Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to contact Corporal Grade One K. Marvel at (302) 232-3435 or reach out through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Key Points
- 81-year-old driver killed after crash and vehicle fire near Georgetown
- SUV struck multiple objects before catching fire
- Investigation ongoing into cause of crash
