Delaware State Police are investigating a deadly head-on crash in Dover that claimed the life of a 70-year-old man and left two others injured over the weekend. The accident happened around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, along Dyke Branch Road, just west of Wheel of Fortune Road. Authorities said the crash involved a Honda Accord and a Volvo S40 traveling in opposite directions.
According to investigators, the Honda Accord was heading eastbound when it suddenly crossed into the westbound lane. At that same moment, a Volvo S40 driven by a 16-year-old from Dover was traveling west. The teen attempted to avoid impact by swerving into the eastbound lane, but the Honda also shifted back into the same lane, setting the stage for a devastating head-on collision.
The driver of the Honda, identified as Bradford Pearce, 70, of Dover, sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash. Troopers confirmed that Pearce had not been wearing a seatbelt, which may have worsened the severity of his injuries. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite emergency medical efforts, he was later pronounced dead. His death has left the Dover community mourning the sudden loss.
The 16-year-old driver of the Volvo, who was properly restrained, escaped with only minor injuries and was treated and released from a local hospital. His passenger, a 45-year-old Dover woman who was also wearing a seatbelt, was more seriously injured but is expected to recover. Authorities emphasized the stark difference in outcomes between the restrained Volvo occupants and the unrestrained Honda driver as a reminder of the importance of seatbelt use.
The crash triggered an extended emergency response. Dyke Branch Road was shut down for approximately three and a half hours while the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit processed the scene. Investigators examined the wreckage, documented evidence, and worked to determine why Pearce’s vehicle crossed into the opposite lane. At this time, officials have not confirmed whether factors such as speed, distraction, or a medical emergency played a role.
Delaware State Police have urged anyone who witnessed the accident or has additional information to contact Sgt. J. Wilson at (302) 698-8518. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333. As the investigation continues, the tragic death of Bradford Pearce serves as a somber reminder of how quickly lives can be lost on the roadway and the critical role that seatbelts play in saving lives.