Location: Coastal Highway (SR1) south of Anchor Way, Dewey Beach, DE
Date of Occurrence: Thursday July 4, 2013 at approximately 9:34 p.m.
Operator and Vehicle Information:
Operator #1: Matthew T. O’Connor, 25, Washington, DC
Vehicle #1: 2005 Lincoln Aviator
Pedestrian #1: Roy E. Love, 79, Rehoboth Beach, DE (Deceased)
Pedestrian #2: Helene L. Love, 75, Rehoboth Beach, DE (Critical Condition)
Dewey Beach, DE- The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is currently investigating a fatal pedestrian crash after two people were hit south of Dewey Beach.
The incident occurred around 9:34 p.m. last evening after the fireworks show in Dewey Beach. Matthew T. O’Connor was operating a 2005 Lincoln Aviator southbound on Coastal Highway (SR1) and was preparing to turn into a turn lane south of Anchor Way. Roy E. Love and his wife Helene L. Love were crossing from the raised concrete median to the west side of SR1 southbound when they both stepped out into the left lane and were struck by the Lincoln.
Roy Love and Helene Love were both transported to Beebe Medical Center where Roy was pronounced dead. Helene Love was later air-lifted to Christiana Medical Center where she is currently listed in critical condition.
Matthew O’Connor, who was properly restrained, was not injured in the crash. He was taken into custody and transported back to Troop 7 where he was charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and released. More charges may be forthcoming upon the completion of the investigation.
The Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing their investigation into this incident. SR1 southbound between Anchor Way and Seagull Drive had one lane closed for approximately two hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.
“Troopers remind pedestrians to use caution and safety when walking on or near roadways. If you must cross a roadway utilize appropriate cross walks and make sure to look left, then right, then left again before proceeding. When walking near a roadway always make yourself visible to drivers by wearing bright/light colored clothing and reflective materials. Pedestrians that are walking at night must carry a flashlight for added safety.”
