CLAYTON, Del. — Delaware State Police are asking for the public’s help as they continue to investigate the 2016 homicide of a 63-year-old man found severely injured in his vehicle nearly a decade ago.
James Leager, a lifelong resident of the Smyrna-Clayton area, was discovered on April 27, 2016, on a farm property in the 700 block of Blackbird-Greenspring Road in Smyrna. He had suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he died nearly three weeks later.
Leager was well known in the local community, and his death drew attention at the time. However, despite a lengthy investigation by the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit, no arrests have been made in connection with the case.
State police say detectives have spent the past nine years reviewing forensic evidence, following leads, and re-interviewing witnesses. The case remains open, and investigators are once again urging anyone with information to come forward.
“This investigation remains active, and we are still looking for any details that could help us bring closure to Mr. Leager’s family,” the Delaware State Police said.
Case remains unsolved after nearly a decade
Leager’s death was initially treated as suspicious after emergency responders found him inside a vehicle under circumstances that have not been publicly detailed. Authorities have not released specifics about the nature of his injuries or what may have led to the assault.
The property where Leager was found is located in a rural area outside of Smyrna, a small town in central Delaware. Investigators have not stated whether the location has any connection to Leager or a potential suspect.
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit continues to investigate and has encouraged members of the public with any potentially relevant information to contact the agency or submit tips anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers.
Anyone with information is asked to reference Case Number 32-16-003230 when contacting police.
