On a sunny afternoon in mid‑December, a stolen Ford Explorer turned a routine traffic patrol into a chaotic chase and collision that left a man injured and three teenagers in court.
The Stolen Vehicle
On Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, around 12 p.m., the Delaware State Police dispatch center released details about a Ford Explorer that had been reported stolen the day before. The vehicle had been taken from an undisclosed location and was on the move when state troopers first spotted it.
The Pursuit Begins
A Delaware State trooper was patrolling Kirkwood Highway near Poplar Avenue in Elsmere, Delaware, when he noticed the Explorer traveling eastbound on Kirkwood. The trooper pursued the stolen vehicle while other troopers quickly responded to the area. The pursuit continued as the Explorer entered a series of intersections.
The Fatal Intersection
Investigators reported that the Ford Explorer ran a red light as it continued southbound on North Dupont Road. The vehicle then crossed North Maryland Avenue and collided with a Dodge Ram pickup truck on South Dupont Road in Wilmington, Delaware. The impact caused the pickup’s driver, a 62‑year‑old man, to suffer non‑life‑threatening injuries and be transported to a local hospital.
The Teenagers’ Escape
After the collision, a 14‑year‑old driver and a 15‑year‑old passenger exited the Explorer and ran off on foot. State police conducted a short foot chase and captured both teens. The 16‑year‑old passenger remained inside the Explorer and was taken into custody without incident.
No Injuries to the Teens
None of the three teenagers sustained injuries during the incident. All were transported to the police station for processing.
Legal Charges and Bonds
The 14‑year‑old was charged with receiving stolen property valued over $1,500, resisting arrest, third‑degree vehicular assault, and multiple related traffic offenses. He was committed to the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families on a $3,700 secured bond.
The 15‑year‑old faced charges of receiving stolen property valued over $1,500 and resisting arrest. He was arraigned and released on a $2,000 unsecured bond.
The 16‑year‑old was charged with receiving stolen property valued over $1,500 and was released on a $1,000 unsecured bond.
The Pickup Driver’s Condition
The driver of the Dodge Ram pickup truck, a 62‑year‑old man, received non‑life‑threatening injuries. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and is expected to recover.
Community Reaction
Local residents expressed shock at the sudden turn of events, noting the swift response of state troopers. Police officials praised the officers’ quick action in apprehending the teens and preventing further harm.
Summary of the Incident
- Three teenagers stole a Ford Explorer.
- The vehicle was pursued by state troopers.
- The Explorer ran a red light and crashed into a pickup truck.
- A 62‑year‑old driver was injured.
- The teens were arrested and charged with multiple offenses.
The incident underscores the dangers of vehicle theft and the importance of rapid law‑enforcement response in preventing further casualties.
Key Takeaways
- The stolen SUV was chased and crashed, injuring a 62‑year‑old driver.
- All three teens were arrested and faced charges related to theft, assault, and traffic violations.
- The teens were released on bonds ranging from $1,000 to $3,700, with one committed to a child services department.
The Delaware State Police remain vigilant as investigations continue into the theft and subsequent events.
