NEWARK, DE — Newark Police are investigating an early morning crash in which a stolen vehicle struck St. John AM Church at the intersection of New London Road and Hillside Road.
The incident began shortly after 4 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025, when officers responded to reports of trespassing and suspicious activity at a car dealership on East Cleveland Avenue. A black sedan, believed to be connected to the incident, was seen leaving the location as officers arrived. Police attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled westbound, prompting officers to discontinue pursuit.
Officers later discovered the sedan had collided with the church. Two occupants were found at the scene with injuries and were transported to a local hospital, where they remain in stable condition. Investigators later confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen in Pennsylvania.
The Newark Police Department’s Traffic Response Unit is handling the investigation. Representatives from the church and the City of Newark’s Building Department arrived at the site to assess the damage caused by the crash.
This incident remains under active investigation. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective James Skinner at (302) 366-7100 ext. 3135 or via email at jskinner@newark.de.us. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the department’s tips page.
An arrest, criminal complaint, or information does not mean guilt. Suspects and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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