UPDATE: Tragedy struck early Friday morning as three Delaware men died in a high-speed police chase that ended in a devastating crash. Authorities have confirmed the identities of the victims as Devon Hargraves, 35, Gershad Andre, 33, and Larry Wilmer, 36, all from Wilmington, Delaware.
The fatal incident unfolded around 1:21 a.m. on November 21, 2023, when Pennsylvania State Police attempted to pull over a vehicle for multiple traffic violations observed in Avondale Borough. When the driver refused to stop, a high-speed pursuit ensued, covering approximately 3 miles through Avondale and New Garden Township.
Authorities report that the chase ended tragically when the vehicle crashed just past Sunny Dell Road and Sharp Road on Route 41, also known as Gap Newport Pike. Preliminary investigations reveal that the vehicle struck a tree, resulting in the immediate deaths of all three occupants. None of the police officers involved were injured.
“It is a tragedy,” said Mayor Susan Rzucidlo of Avondale. “Lives were lost. We send our condolences to the families. It is heartbreaking.”
Investigators have yet to disclose the speed of the fleeing vehicle or its make and model. The crash occurred less than two miles from the Delaware state line, near Hockessin, raising questions about the circumstances leading to such a fatal outcome.
The Pennsylvania State Police from Troop J’s Avondale station are actively investigating the incident. Citizens are urged to stay informed as more details emerge regarding the events that led to this tragic loss of life.
As the community mourns, this incident underscores the dangers of high-speed chases and their often devastating consequences. The ongoing investigation will seek to answer critical questions about police protocol and the events that transpired during the pursuit.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as authorities work to piece together the details of this heartbreaking incident.
