DOVER, Del. — A 22-year-old man is dead after his car struck a utility pole and caught fire late Monday night along North DuPont Highway, police said.
The crash occurred just before 11 p.m. in the 600 block of North DuPont Highway. Officers responded to find a 2003 Toyota Camry that had slammed into a utility pole and ignited. Fire crews extinguished the blaze and extricated the driver, but he died from his injuries at the scene.
Investigators believe the Camry was traveling southbound before veering off the road for unknown reasons. There were no indications of any other vehicles being involved in the crash.
The cause of the collision is still under investigation. Authorities have not determined whether alcohol, drugs, or speed were factors. The Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of the victim for further examination.
The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Investigation continues into deadly single-vehicle wreck
There were no additional occupants in the vehicle, and no injuries to bystanders were reported. Traffic in the area was temporarily diverted while emergency responders cleared the scene and utility crews assessed damage to the transformer.
Officials have not indicated whether weather conditions or driver distraction may have contributed to the wreck. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses may be reviewed to aid the investigation.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Dover Police.