Sunday December, 10 2023 @ 23:30

Nature: Vehicle Accident w/Medics

Location: 23008-23999 John J Williams Hwy Millsboro, DE 19966

On Sunday evening, December 10^th, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for a vehicle accident on John J. Williams Highway in the vicinity of Holly Lake Campsites.  It was reported to be a vehicle versus utility pole, overturned into the marshy swamp area.

Emergency response units from Indian River included Rescue 80 from the Oak Orchard facility, Engine#80-1 and Incident Command from the Long Neck area as well as the Delaware State Fire Police.  Additional emergency alerts included the Mid Sussex Rescue Squad and the Sussex County Paramedics.

Emergency response crew assignments included immediate notification of the utility service provider because od downed utility pole with wires down impacting the ability to access the vehicle, verbal contact with the vehicle’s occupant provide information and verification of injuries, traffic control, and overall incident mitigation pending arrival of the electric company.  Once the power discontinuation was secured, the occupant exited the vehicle and was provided an evaluation.

It appears that a vehicle was traveling west on John J. Williams Highway and left the roadway striking a utility pole and overturning into the marshy swamp area.  Extrication was delayed because of wires down and accessibility concerns.  The electric did discontinue the utility service.

The Delaware State Fire Police and the Delaware Department of Transportation coordinated complete roadway closure for the duration of the incident.

The Delaware Electric Cooperative will have to coordinate the replacement of the utility pole and electric service restoration.

The Delaware State Police are investigating and will coordinate the removal of the vehicle when necessary.

This section of John J. Williams Highway will be closed for an extended period of time.