Two pedestrians struck in Dewey Beach crash

DEWEY BEACH, Del. — Police in Dewey Beach are investigating a crash early Sunday that left one pedestrian critically injured after a vehicle struck two people in a marked crosswalk.

The collision happened around 1:54 a.m. Sunday along Coastal Highway near New Orleans Street, according to the Dewey Beach Police Department. Authorities said a Toyota Prius driven by a 64-year-old man from Largo, Florida, was traveling southbound when it struck two pedestrians crossing westbound in a marked crosswalk.

Police said the pedestrian-activated flashing yellow beacons at the crossing were not activated at the time of the crash, and the driver failed to yield the right of way.

Officers who were nearby on an unrelated call responded immediately and provided aid to the victims.

A 25-year-old man from Lewes suffered minor injuries and was taken by emergency medical services to a nearby hospital, where he was later released. A 22-year-old woman from Georgetown suffered critical injuries and was flown to Christiana Medical Center, where she remained hospitalized.

The driver of the Prius was not injured, remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators, police said.

Southbound lanes of Coastal Highway were closed for about two hours as crews investigated and cleared the scene.

During the road closure, police said a separate incident occurred when a southbound Ford Focus failed to follow directions from a fire police officer diverting traffic near Saulsbury Street. The vehicle nearly struck the officer and entered the crash scene, forcing several first responders to move out of its path.

Officers stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as Christian McPoyle, 26, of Dover. Authorities said he showed signs of impairment and attempted to lock himself inside the car before being taken into custody.

McPoyle was charged with reckless endangering, resisting arrest, driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, driving while suspended or revoked, and related traffic offenses. He was committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on an intoxication hold.

The Delaware Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement assisted in the investigation.

Police said the crash remains under investigation, and additional charges could be filed.