UPDATE: Fatal Crash in Ellendale Under Investigation
Ellenadale, DE – A single-vehicle crash on Dupont Boulevard resulted in the death of an 81-year-old driver on April 17.
At approximately 12:00 p.m., a Ford Explorer traveling southbound struck a mailbox, a road sign, and an embankment before catching fire, according to authorities. Bystanders reportedly removed the unresponsive driver, Michael Jeffra of Georgetown, from the vehicle and initiated life-saving efforts. He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash.
Dupont Boulevard was closed for around two hours to facilitate an investigation. The Delaware State Police (DSP) are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, which initially appeared to involve a medical emergency.
Ellendale Fire Company, assisted by Sussex County Paramedics and Delaware State Police Aviation, responded to the scene and provided medical aid to the driver. Witnesses reported bystander efforts to control the fire and perform CPR prior to emergency services’ arrival.
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact Corporal Grade One K. Marvel at DSP Troop 5 at (302) 232-3435, or provide details via private message to the DSP on Facebook or through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.