Wilmington, DE – A fatal three-vehicle crash shut down a stretch of Interstate 495 in Wilmington late Saturday night, leaving one man dead and prompting an ongoing investigation by state police.
According to Delaware State Police, the crash happened Saturday around 11:30 p.m. in the northbound lanes of I-495 near 12th Street. Investigators said a Ford Windstar was traveling in the right lane when it was allegedly struck from behind by a Kia Optima. The impact allegedly forced the Ford into a guardrail, causing the driver to exit the vehicle.
Police said the driver of the Ford, identified as 45-year-old Mark Barnett of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, was walking near the roadway when he was allegedly struck by a Ram 1500 pickup truck. Barnett was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The driver of the Ram, a 65-year-old man from Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania, was not injured, authorities said.
Troopers said the Kia’s operator allegedly fled the scene before law enforcement arrived and remains under investigation. Officials are continuing to search for the driver and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The crash led to a full closure of the roadway for approximately five hours as crews investigated and cleared the scene, causing significant traffic disruptions overnight.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has video footage to contact investigators or Delaware Crime Stoppers.
Officials also reminded the public that victim support services are available through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit for those affected.
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