A 17-year-old Lewes girl died and a 4-year-old child was injured after an SUV crashed and overturned on Oak Road Thursday morning.
A 17-year-old driver from Lewes was killed Thursday morning after losing control of an SUV on Oak Road in Bridgeville, according to Delaware State Police. A 4-year-old passenger survived the crash and was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Key Points
• A 17-year-old Lewes girl died in a single-vehicle crash on Oak Road.
• Police said the SUV was traveling at an apparent high rate of speed before overturning.
• A 4-year-old child was injured but is expected to survive.
The crash occurred at approximately 9:05 a.m. on Oak Road south of Apple Tree Road. Investigators said a Toyota Sequoia was traveling southbound when the driver attempted to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone while approaching a curve.
According to the preliminary investigation, the SUV was traveling at an apparent high rate of speed and failed to negotiate the curve. The vehicle overturned and exited the roadway on the west side before coming to rest off the road.
Driver Ejected From Vehicle
Police said the 17-year-old driver was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected during the crash. Emergency responders transported her to a nearby hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
A 4-year-old passenger, who was properly restrained in a child safety seat, was also taken to an area hospital. Authorities said the child’s injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Investigation Continues
The roadway remained closed for an extended period while investigators processed the scene and crews cleared the wreckage.
The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing to investigate the crash. Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or has information about what occurred to contact Sergeant A. Mitchell at (302) 703-3269 or provide information through Delaware Crime Stoppers.
The identity of the teen driver has not been released by authorities.