NEWARK, DE — A Wilmington man is facing a felony firearm charge after a traffic stop in Newark on Sunday afternoon led to the discovery of a loaded handgun, Delaware State Police announced this week.
According to authorities, on July 6, 2025, at approximately 3:32 p.m., a trooper on patrol observed a white Honda Accord committing multiple traffic violations, including driving on the right shoulder to bypass traffic on Route 1 northbound, approaching the ramp to I-95 northbound.
The trooper initiated a traffic stop on I-95 northbound, where the vehicle continued to travel along the shoulder. Upon making contact with the driver, identified as 24-year-old Lenford Kirlew of Wilmington, police noted that he made several inconsistent statements and failed to comply with commands to remain outside the vehicle.
During the encounter, Kirlew reportedly re-entered the Honda multiple times despite repeated instructions. Eventually, troopers observed him reach toward the passenger seat, prompting officers to take him into custody for safety reasons.
Following his arrest, troopers discovered a loaded firearm on the passenger seat, which had been concealed during initial contact.
Kirlew was transported to Troop 2, where he was charged with carrying a concealed firearm, a felony offense, as well as overtaking/passing on the right unlawfully and other related traffic violations.
He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 11 and released after posting a $2,500 secured bond.
All charges are allegations, and Lenford Kirlew is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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