A tragic collision in Townsend, Delaware, on December 3 left a newborn dead and a 28‑year‑old driver facing murder charges. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about road safety and drunk driving in Delaware.
Incident Details
At approximately 9:45 p.m., the crash occurred at the intersection of Boyds Corner Road and Jamison Corner Road. The intersection is a busy corridor for local commuters.
Pavan Patel, 28, was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee eastbound on Boyds Corner Road when he allegedly ran a red light. Witnesses reported that the Jeep accelerated past the red signal.
The vehicle struck the passenger side of a Mazda CX‑9 that was traveling southbound on Jamison Corner Road. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles.
The Mazda was driven by a 31‑year‑old pregnant woman who sustained non‑life‑threatening injuries after the impact. Emergency responders arrived within minutes to provide assistance.
Following the collision, the woman gave birth to a baby named La’Royce Johnson‑Young. The birth occurred shortly after the crash, adding to the complexity of the situation.
The infant was taken to a hospital, where complications from the crash led to the baby’s death on December 6. Medical staff noted that the infant’s condition worsened rapidly.
The mother was also transported to the hospital for treatment of her injuries. The mother’s injuries were assessed as non‑life‑threatening but required hospitalization.
Police confirmed that the crash was caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol. Police identified the driver’s blood alcohol level as above the legal limit.
Legal Proceedings
Pavan Patel turned himself in to authorities on Wednesday, December 10, after the incident. Patel’s surrender followed a brief period of investigation.
He is now charged with second‑degree murder in connection with the baby’s death. Second‑degree murder is charged because the death was not directly caused by an intentional act.
Additional charges include assault in the first degree, driving under the influence of alcohol, and other related offenses. The assault charge relates to the physical impact on the other vehicle.
Delaware State Police stated that Patel remains in custody on a cash bond of $280,102.00. The $280,102 bond reflects the seriousness of the allegations.
The bond amount was set to secure his appearance at future court proceedings. Bond terms require Patel to appear at all scheduled court dates.
Police have not yet released a full statement regarding the circumstances of the DUI. No further statements have been released regarding the DUI details.
The case is currently pending, and the court will determine the next steps in the legal process. The case will proceed through the Delaware court system.
Impact and Community Response
The death of La’Royce Johnson‑Young has shocked the local community in Townsend. Community members have gathered to mourn the loss.
Residents have expressed grief and frustration over the loss of the newborn. Local media outlets have covered the story extensively.
Local officials have called for a review of traffic safety measures at the intersection. Officials have announced plans to assess traffic control measures.
The incident has also prompted discussions about alcohol‑related driving laws in Delaware. The incident highlights gaps in enforcement of DUI laws.
Support groups for parents who have experienced similar tragedies have offered condolences to the family. Families affected by similar accidents have offered solidarity.
Key Takeaways
- The crash occurred at 9:45 p.m. on December 3 at Boyds Corner Road and Jamison Corner Road.
- Pavan Patel, 28, faces second‑degree murder and DUI charges after running a red light.
- The newborn La’Royce Johnson‑Young died on December 6, and the mother was hospitalized with non‑life‑threatening injuries.
Authorities will continue to investigate the incident while the legal proceedings unfold, underscoring the serious consequences of impaired driving. The legal outcome will serve as a reminder of the grave risks associated with impaired driving.
