Two Cape students die in Lewes crash
Two Cape High students died July 15 after driving off a curve on Gills Neck Road.
A BMW 328 was speeding eastbound near the 16000 block of Gills Neck Road at 11:26 p.m. when it left the roadway at the sharp curve near the Showfield and Wolfe Runne communities, police said.
The car continued onto a residential property where it struck a wall/pillar, a tree and a metal fence before bursting into flames, police said.
The fire spread to the house, causing extensive damage; occupants of the home exited and were not injured, police said.
Elijah Ghabour and Ryan Andrew were pronounced dead at the scene.
In a statement, Cape High Principal Kristin DeGregory said school counselors and staff will be available for students needing support at Cape High from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., through Friday. Also, students, parents or community members feeling an urgent need are encouraged to call the 24-7 crisis hotline at 1-800-969-4357 (HELP) or text 988 for immediate support. School district families received a phone call and email about 2 p.m. July 16 sharing the same information.
“Our school community is deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of two of our high school students as a result of a tragic accident that occurred July 15,” she said. “We extend our heartfelt sympathy to all involved, and the students’ families and friends.”
Many businesses and members of the community posted tributes on social media, some including two hearts featuring Cape’s colors – one gold and the other Columbia blue.
The roadway was closed for about three hours while the scene was investigated and cleared. Multiple fire companies responded to the scene.
The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident and asks anyone who witnessed this crash or might have more information to contact Sgt. A. Mitchell at 302-703-3269, send a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contact Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
