Delaware Memorial bridge accident: Tractor-trailer cab crashes - search underway, casualties feared

Delaware Memorial Bridge accident took place in the wee hours of Friday as a commercial vehicle reportedly plunged off the bridge and sank into Delaware river. Delaware River & Bay Authority (DRBA) stated that emergency personnel were working on the southbound span of the bridge and the left southbound lane is closed.

The tractor-trailer fell 20 feet of water after crashing off a concrete barrier. The condition of the driver is critical. The vehicle was travelling to southbound on I-295 and out of nowhere it crossed three lanes, local media reported.

Reports stated that fire brigade teams, dive teams and Coast Guard rushed to the spot. Luckily, no other vehicle was involved in the accident.


Past Accidents on Delaware Memorial Bridge

The bridge has witnessed fatal crashes in the recent past.

On March 2021, in a fatal truck-car collision, a broken-down Kia Optima in the southbound lanes was rear-ended around 3 PM by a Freightliner semi-trailer. Two occupants of the Kia — driver Mary Sanderlin (37) and back-seat passenger Rudolf Parish (29), both from New Jersey — were killed instantly. A third occupant suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

On April 4, 2021, a vehicle on the northbound side struck trees near the Pennsville (NJ) approach. The driver was killed.

In November 2023, a semi-truck reportedly struck a Toyota Camry and dragged it briefly on the southbound side before fleeing. Police are actively seeking witnesses.

On May 20, 2025, there was a police response to an apparent suicide attempt on the northbound span. Multiple I‑295 lanes were temporarily closed, causing significant delays. Authorities acted promptly. Fortunately, lanes have since been reopened.

FAQs

Q1. Is Delaware Memorial Bridge closed today?
A1. Delaware Memorial Bridge is partially closed on Friday after an accident. The left southbound lane is closed.

Q2. Is there any accident on Delaware Memorial bridge?
A2. Yes, an accident has taken place on the Delaware Memorial bridge.