WILMINGTON, DE — Delaware State Police are renewing their appeal for information in the 2019 homicide of Susan Ledyard, with a $50,000 reward now being offered for information leading to an arrest.
According to the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit, Ledyard’s body was discovered in the Brandywine River near Northeast Boulevard at approximately 7:39 a.m. on July 23, 2019. Investigators reported she had visible injuries.
Following a post-mortem examination by the Delaware Division of Forensic Science, authorities determined Ledyard died from blunt force trauma and drowning. Her death was ruled a homicide.
Investigators said Ledyard remained active on her cellphone until approximately 2:45 a.m. on July 23, calling and texting friends.
Surveillance video later captured her black 2016 Honda Civic leaving her driveway at approximately 3:02 a.m., according to police. The vehicle was subsequently found parked on Walkers Mill Road near the Rising Sun Lane Bridge over the Brandywine River. Detectives believe the vehicle traveled directly from her residence to that location.
Police reported they have been unable to determine Ledyard’s whereabouts between approximately 3:02 a.m. and 7 a.m. Data from her Fitbit indicated she was alive until about 7 a.m., investigators said.
Ledyard’s body was discovered at 7:39 a.m. Her vehicle was located later that morning at approximately 8:54 a.m., about three miles upstream from where her body was recovered. Detectives believe she did not enter the river from the location where her vehicle was found.
Delaware State Police said investigators have reviewed surveillance footage, cellphone records and evidence gathered with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies and civilian experts but continue to seek additional leads.
In partnership with Delaware Crime Stoppers, Ledyard’s family is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Daniel Grassi at 302-365-8441 or daniel.grassi@delaware.gov. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Delaware Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-TIP-3333.
All suspects, arrestees, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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