Delaware State Police have identified 79-year-old Barbara Hageman as the victim in a devastating three-car collision that occurred on Sunday near Millsboro. The tragic crash happened around 6 p.m. on Cool Spring Road at the intersection with Harbeson Road.
According to police reports, the incident began when a Ram ProMaster cargo van was traveling westbound on Cool Spring Road and approached a stop sign at the intersection with Harbeson Road. Simultaneously, a Nissan Sentra was heading south on Cool Spring Road, also approaching the same stop sign. For reasons still under investigation, the ProMaster failed to stop at the intersection and collided with the driver’s side of the Nissan.
The force of the collision sent debris striking a Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling on Harbeson Road, though the driver of that vehicle was unharmed. The driver of the Nissan, an 86-year-old man from Millsboro, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Sadly, his passenger, Barbara Hageman, did not survive her injuries and passed away after being taken to the hospital. The Delaware State Police have expressed their condolences to Hageman’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
The 29-year-old driver of the Ram ProMaster, who is a resident of Salisbury, Maryland, only sustained minor injuries in the crash. He chose to decline medical transport from the scene. Fortunately, the driver of the Jeep Grand Cherokee involved was unharmed.
The investigation into the cause of the crash remains ongoing as authorities attempt to determine the sequence of events that led to this tragic accident. While officials have not ruled out any specific causes such as impairment or distraction, no charges have been disclosed at this time.
Delaware State Police are asking for assistance from the public to help provide more information about the incident. Witnesses or anyone with relevant details are urged to contact Master Cpl. R. Albert at 302-703-3266 or submit tips via Facebook Messenger to the Delaware State Police. Anonymous tips can also be shared through Delaware Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-847-3333.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of road safety, especially at intersections. As the investigation continues, authorities are emphasizing the need for vigilance, caution, and adherence to traffic laws to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The community is mourning the loss of Barbara Hageman as officials work to piece together what led to this fatal crash.