Delaware State Police                                 Cpl/2 John “Wes” Barnett Jr.

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Pedal Cyclists Critically Injured During Two Vehicle Crash on US 113 Frankford

Released-Sunday, June 17, 2007

Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is currently investigating a two vehicle crash that left one person critically injured and another in serious condition. The crash occurred this evening at approximately 5:00 p.m. on US 113 (DuPont Boulevard) just north of Daisy Street in Frankford.

Investigators learned that a 1999 Mitsubishi Mirage operated by Sebastian Cruz-Mendoza, 51, of Frankford was west on Daisy Street stopped at the intersection of US113 north.  A second vehicle, a 2001 Dodge Stratus operated by James L. Harper, 83, of Millsboro was traveling north in the right lane of US 113 approaching Daisy Street.  Two pedal cyclists Conswella Ayers, 34, and Dakwon Ayers, 10, both of Frankford were traveling north on the north bound shoulder of US 113 north of Daisy Street.

 According to investigators, the Mitsubishi operated by Mr. Cruz-Mendoza failed to remain stopped and proceeded west across US 113 north striking the passengers side of the Stratus operated by Mr. Harper.  After impact the Stratus rotated clockwise and struck two pedal cyclists who were riding on the north bound shoulder of US 113 just north of Daisy Street.  The Mitsubishi also rotated clockwise and exited the east edge of the road before coming to rest.

As a result of the crash, Ms. Ayres sustained multiple traumatic injures and was flown to Christiana Hospital and is currently in critical condition.  Dakwon Ayers sustained a fractured leg and was flown to Christiana Hospital and then A. I. DuPont and is in serious condition. Mr. Cruz-Mendoza was uninjured and was wearing a seatbelt.  Mr. Harper was transported to Beebe Hospital, treated and released for minor injuries.  Mr. Harper was also wearing a seatbelt.  No alcohol is suspected.  US 113 (north) at Daisy Street was closed for approximately two and a half hours while investigators examined the scene.  The crash remains under investigation.

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