Tragic U-Haul Police Chase Near UD Ends in Student’s Death.

A quiet Tuesday afternoon near the University of Delaware campus erupted into chaos and tragedy when an overdue U-Haul van, fleeing police, slammed into pedestrians and parked cars on bustling Main Street. The crash claimed the life of a UD student and left eight others injured, sending shockwaves through the university and Newark community.

A Desperate Escape Turns Deadly

What began as a routine check quickly spiraled into disaster. Newark police spotted a U-Haul truck that was long overdue for return. As officers approached, the driver suddenly floored the accelerator, sideswiping a police cruiser in a frantic bid to escape. The van sped recklessly down Main Street, weaving dangerously close to bystanders.

Witnesses recall the terrifying moment the van jumped the curb, striking two pedestrians standing near a parked car. One was a University of Delaware student who tragically lost their life at the scene. The other was critically injured and rushed to the hospital. The van didn’t stop there-it crashed into several parked vehicles before finally coming to a halt, allowing police to apprehend the injured suspects.

A Community in Shock

The normally vibrant streets near campus fell silent as emergency crews worked tirelessly to care for eight injured individuals, including the suspects. Six suffered minor injuries, but the loss of a young life has left the entire community heartbroken.

University President Dennis Assanis expressed deep sorrow in a statement, saying,

"Our hearts are heavy. We mourn the loss of one of our own and stand united in support of those affected by this senseless tragedy."

Counseling services have been made available to students and staff grappling with the shock.

Voices from the Scene

Local business owners and students alike are struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.

“I heard the crash and ran outside-it was like something out of a nightmare,” said a nearby café owner.

Students laid flowers at the crash site, their faces marked by grief and disbelief.

Looking Ahead

The Newark Police Department continues its investigation, withholding the names of those involved until families are notified. This tragic event has reignited urgent conversations about safety on and around campus, highlighting the dangers posed by reckless driving in pedestrian-heavy areas.