Bear – Early Morning Fatal Crash Investigation

Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred this morning in the Bear area.

On April 27, 2023, at approximately 3:56 a.m., an unoccupied GMC C8500 was stopped in the center lane of northbound Route 1 directly under the Kirkwood Saint Georges overpass within an active construction zone. The GMC is part of the construction equipment utilized in the repair of the overpass. The active construction zone had the two left northbound lanes closed to traffic using construction barrels and attenuator trucks. For unknown reasons, a 2008 Ford 150 that was traveling in the right lane of northbound Route 1 drifted partially into the center and struck approximately four construction barrels. The Ford continued to travel northbound in the center lane until the front of the Ford struck the rear right of the GMC.

The 36-year-old male operator of the Ford from Lancaster, PA who was not properly restrained was pronounced deceased at the scene. Identification of the victim is pending notification to the next of kin.

There were no other reported injuries.

Northbound Route 1 was closed for approximately 4 hours while the crash was investigated, and the roadway was cleared.