LEWES, DE — Two Maryland residents have been identified as the victims of a tragic multi-vehicle crash that occurred Friday afternoon on Delaware’s busy Coastal Highway, leading to major traffic disruptions and a lengthy police investigation. According to Delaware State Police (DSP), the crash happened shortly before 2:30 p.m. in the southbound lanes just south of Hudson Road, when a dump truck failed to slow down for stopped traffic, setting off a devastating chain reaction.
Investigators said a Peterbilt dump truck struck the rear of a Ford Edge, which was pushed into several other vehicles, including a Nissan Altima, a BMW X2, and a BMW 135. The violent impact caused significant damage to all vehicles involved and left debris scattered across the highway. Troopers later identified the victims inside the Ford Edge as 62-year-old Charlene Broccolo and 64-year-old Albert Broccolo, both of Bel Air, Maryland. Sadly, both died at the scene despite efforts by emergency responders.
Other motorists involved in the crash — from Millsboro, Milton, and Wilmington — were transported to nearby hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. A 74-year-old driver from Lewes, who was operating the BMW 135, declined medical treatment at the scene. Authorities said all other injured individuals are expected to recover.
The crash forced a five-hour shutdown of Coastal Highway as police and rescue crews worked to secure the area, provide medical assistance, and clear the wreckage. DSP’s Collision Reconstruction Unit spent hours documenting evidence and reconstructing the sequence of events to determine exactly how the crash unfolded. Witnesses reported that traffic had been slowing in the area before the collision, and investigators believe driver inattention or speed may have contributed. The dump truck driver remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation.
Residents familiar with the area say traffic congestion along this stretch of Coastal Highway is common, especially in the afternoon hours. The fatal collision, which involved six vehicles, has renewed community calls for greater driver awareness and patience on Delaware’s roadways.
The Broccolo family, described by neighbors as kind and community-oriented, is being supported by local officials as they navigate this sudden loss. Authorities continue to investigate and will determine whether any charges will be filed. Police are urging all drivers to maintain safe following distances and stay alert to changing traffic conditions to prevent future tragedies.
