Newark, DE – Authorities are investigating a serious motor vehicle accident that occurred on East Main Street near the University of Delaware campus on Monday evening.
Newark Police and emergency crews responded to the scene of the crash shortly after 6:00 PM, following multiple 911 calls reporting a collision involving at least two vehicles in the busy university district.
The accident took place in a highly trafficked area frequented by students and pedestrians, raising significant concern among residents and members of the University of Delaware community.
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic and distressing scene, with debris scattered across the roadway and traffic halted in all directions as first responders rushed to assist the injured and secure the area.
Initial reports indicate that the crash involved a sedan and an SUV, though details surrounding the cause remain under investigation. According to authorities, both vehicles sustained substantial front-end damage, suggesting a possible head-on or T-bone impact.
Witnesses say one of the vehicles may have been speeding or failed to yield, though police have not confirmed any official cause as of yet. Several individuals were reportedly injured in the accident, including at least one believed to be a University of Delaware student.
Emergency medical services treated victims on site and transported those in need of further care to nearby Christiana Hospital. The conditions of those injured have not been publicly disclosed, but law enforcement confirmed that no fatalities had been reported as of Monday night.
Police cordoned off a section of East Main Street between South Chapel Street and Academy Street to allow investigators to survey the scene and clear the wreckage. The closure caused significant traffic delays in the area and prompted university officials to issue an alert to students and staff advising them to avoid the scene and use alternate routes.
“The safety of our students and community is our top priority,” said a University spokesperson in a brief statement Monday evening. “We are in communication with local authorities and will continue to monitor the situation closely. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident.”
Newark Police are asking anyone who witnessed the accident or has relevant dashcam footage to come forward to assist with the investigation. Officials have also encouraged anyone with concerns about loved ones who may have been in the area to contact local emergency services for assistance.
This accident comes at a time when safety around university campuses remains a top priority for both city officials and university leadership. East Main Street, while a hub of student activity with restaurants, shops, and campus buildings nearby, has seen several traffic-related incidents in recent years. Increased foot traffic and growing vehicle congestion have prompted repeated calls for improved traffic calming measures and pedestrian safety enhancements.
Residents and students alike expressed shock and concern following the accident. “It’s really scary, especially because this happened so close to campus,” said Julia Martinez, a sophomore at the University of Delaware. “We walk down Main Street every day. It makes you realize how quickly things can go wrong.”
As the community awaits further updates, counseling services have been made available for students and staff affected by the incident. The University of Delaware’s Center for Counseling and Student Development has extended hours for walk-in support, encouraging anyone in need to seek assistance.
Police have not yet released the names of those involved in the accident, pending further investigation and notification of family members. More information is expected to be released in the coming days as the investigation progresses.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact the Newark Police Department at (302) 366-7100 or submit an anonymous tip online.
As of late Monday night, East Main Street has been reopened to traffic, though the investigation remains active. The University and local law enforcement are expected to collaborate on future safety initiatives to help prevent similar incidents from occurring.
