Mardela Springs Woman Killed in Laurel Car Crash; DSP Investigating

LAUREL, Del. – The Delaware State Police are investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred Tuesday evening in Laurel.

On Sept. 15, at 5:50 p.m., authorities say a Ford Maverick was traveling westbound on Salt Barn Road, approaching the stop sign at Old Stage Road. At the same time, a Honda HRV was traveling southbound on Old Stage Road, also approaching the aforementioned stop sign. A preliminary investigation revealed that the Ford failed to stop at the stop sign, and struck the driver’s side of the Honda.

The driver of the Honda, a 54-year-old woman from Mardela Springs was taken to an area hospital where she later died. Her name is being withheld until her family is notified.

The driver of the Ford, a 32-year-old man from Laurel, was taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

This fatal crash follows a similar collision at the same intersection just over two weeks prior. On Aug. 27, police say 63-year-old James Elliot of Laurel failed to stop at the intersection, subsequently striking a Kia Sportage, killing 54-year-old Norma Eckard of Delmar. He was arrested on charges including second degree vehicular homicide.

The roadway was closed for approximately 3 hours on Tuesday while the scene was investigated and cleared.

Troopers ask anyone who witnessed the collision, or has related video, to contact Master Corporal J. Smith by calling (302) 703-3267. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police(Opens in a new window.) or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers(Opens in a new window.) at (800) 847-3333.