Delaware teens steal SUV, crash into pickup truck, police say

Three Delaware teenagers stole an SUV, fled from state troopers and then crashed into a pickup truck, injuring a man inside, investigators said.

On Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, around 12 p.m., the Delaware State Police dispatch center shared details on a Ford Explorer that had been reportedly stolen a day before.

A Delaware State trooper was patrolling Kirkwood Highway near Poplar Avenue in Elsmere, Delaware, when they spotted the Explorer traveling eastbound on Kirkwood. The trooper followed the stolen vehicle as other troopers responded to the area.

Investigators said the Ford Explorer ran a red light as it continued southbound on North Dupont Road. The vehicle then crossed North Maryland Avenue and crashed into a Dodge Ram pickup truck on South Dupont Road in Wilmington, Delaware, investigators said.

A 14-year-old driver and a 15-year-old passenger got out of the Ford Explorer and ran off on foot, according to investigators. The two teens were captured by state police after a short foot chase, officials said.  

A 16-year-old passenger remained at the Explorer and was taken into custody without incident, according to investigators.  

The driver of the Dodge Ram pickup truck – a 62-year-old man – suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital.

None of the three teens were hurt during the incident.

The 14-year-old is charged with receiving stolen property value over $1,500, resisting arrest, third-degree vehicular assault and multiple related traffic offenses. The teen was committed to the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families on a $3,700 secured bond.

The 15-year-old is charged with receiving stolen property valued over $1,500 and resisting arrest. The teen was arraigned and released on a $2,000 unsecured bond.

The 16-year-old was charged with receiving stolen property value over $1,500. The teen was released on a $1,000 unsecured bond.