Tragic Incident Near University of Delaware: Student Killed

A tragic event unfolded at the University of Delaware when a graduate student lost their life, and several others suffered injuries after a U-Haul truck, driven by a suspect evading the police, struck pedestrians near the campus.

Kathy Jennings, the Attorney General of Delaware, described the incident as a 'heartbreaking and senseless occurrence' that could have been prevented entirely.

The sequence of events began on a Tuesday afternoon when police noticed an unattended U-Haul truck in a shopping center parking lot. This vehicle had been reported as not returned after being rented the previous month.

Eventually, Gordon Turner, aged 22, and an accomplice reappeared at the truck. As law enforcement attempted to detain them, Turner drove over a curb, hit a police vehicle, and rapidly exited the area.

According to the police, officers chose not to pursue Turner, opting instead to remain at the shopping center.

The U-Haul truck then barreled down Main Street, losing control and colliding with two pedestrians, as reported by police.

Subsequently, the truck crashed into several parked vehicles. Five people were inside these cars, and the chain reaction pushed one car into another pedestrian.

Witnesses reported that the U-Haul finally came to a halt in front of a post office.

Tragically, one of the pedestrians, a graduate student from the University of Delaware aged 24, died instantly.

Another student of the same age endured serious injuries and was hospitalized. As of Wednesday, they are in stable condition.

Additional victims were rushed to medical facilities with injuries that were not considered life-threatening, while others received treatment at the scene for minor issues.

Police managed to reach the halted U-Haul and took both Turner and his companion into custody.

Attorney General Jennings expressed deep regret, noting the innocent nature of the victims who simply enjoyed their day before they were harmed by the accused individual’s reckless action.

Turner's list of charges includes second-degree murder, reflecting indifference to human life, and first-degree assault for actions that posed substantial risks.

Further charges are anticipated, according to Jennings.

Turner is also a known fugitive with outstanding warrants in several states including Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.

The passenger accompanying Turner has not faced any charges yet.

In a statement to the university community, Dennis Assanis, the University President, and José-Luis Riera, VP for Student Life, expressed their condolences, offering support to those affected by the incident.

They reassured the campus that safety remains a primary focus and committed to continuing collaboration with local authorities to enhance security measures.