UPDATE: DSU responds to Homecoming crash
Dover Police are investigating after seven people were reportedly hit by a suspected drunk driver on Saturday evening.
According to police, the crash happened on Delaware State University’s campus around 7:30 p.m. An investigation revealed Mitchellville man Gregory Ligon, 28, was driving near the area of a fraternity picnic.
Police tell 47ABC Ligon tried to park his car and exit, but he apparently forgot the vehicle was still in reverse. We’re told Ligon quickly entered the driver’s seat to stop the vehicle and pushed the gas pedal instead of the break, causing the vehicle to accelerate over a curb and across a grassy area full of people. The driver-side door was open, according to police.
Authorities say the most serious of the injuries occurred when the driver door struck a 21-year-old woman and pinned her against a tree.
She was reportedly flown to Christiana Hospital with major injuries. Police say she suffered a broken back, ribs and sustained multiple internal injuries. She is currently listed under critical condition.
The second victim is a 51-year-old Philadelphia man who was treated for shoulder and leg injuries at Bayhealth Kent General.
The third victim is a 20-year-old New Jersey woman who was treated for a foot injury at Bayhealth Kent General.
The fourth victim is a 21-year-old Wilmington woman, who was treated for a hand injury at Bayhealth Kent General.
The fifth victim, a 21-year-old Dover man, was treated for a leg injury at Bayhealth Kent General.
The sixth victim is a 21-year-old Upper Marlboro woman who was treated for a foot injury at Bayhealth Kent General.
The seventh victim, a 22-year-old Brooklyn woman, was reportedly treated for a foot injury at Bayhealth Kent General.
Police say Ligon’s car continued to travel as the driver door broke off, until it struck another tree and came to a stop. Ligon was eventually removed from the car by several bystanders.
According to police reports, Ligon was found to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He is expected to be charged with 1st degree vehicular assault, six counts of 2nd degree vehicular assault, a DUI, and no proof of insurance.
The investigation into the crash is being led by the Dover Police Department, with assistance from Delaware State University Police.
47 ABC reached out to Dover residents to learn more about the incident. One resident said she heard about the incident Sunday morning on Facebook.
“They didn’t go into any information about the accident. Just saying that there were serious crash and they canceled activities,” said Eliana Richard.
As a result of the incident, Delaware State University canceled all on-campus homecoming activities for the remainder of the evening on Saturday.
The president of DSU, Dr. Harry L. Williams, released this statement on the university’s Facebook page:
“It was an unfortunate accident that took place on Saturday evening, and our thoughts and prayers are with all persons who suffered injuries in the incident,” said Dr. Williams. “Our primary priority continues to be the safety of our students, employees and visitors.” “Staff from Student Health Services stand ready to provide support to our students during this difficult time.”
If you have witnessed the crash or have information which might help investigators with the case call Delaware State University Police at 302 857-7911.
