Motor vehicle crashed into a house of worship

The Newark Police Department is investigating a motor vehicle crash, during which the vehicle struck the St. John AM Church at the corner of New London Road and Hillside Road on August 9, 2024, at approximately 2:06 AM. Early investigative efforts revealed that the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed westbound on West Cleveland Avenue. As the vehicle continued westbound through the intersection of West Cleveland Avenue/Hillside Road and New London Road, the vehicle left the roadway and struck the church, which is located on the northwest corner of the intersection. The driver of the vehicle fled from the scene prior to the arrival of officers. There is currently no description of the driver.

The Newark Police made contact with the church’s staff and the City of Newark Building Department. Representatives from both organizations responded to the scene.

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about this incident, including the driver of the vehicle, is asked to contact Sgt. T. Maiura at (302) 366-7100 x. 3423 or tmaiura@newark.de.us.  Additional methods for providing information to Newark Police can be found on our tips page, where reward information may also be available.