16-Year-Old and 15-Year-Old Arrested After Stolen Vehicle Pursuit in Claymont

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Delaware State Police have apprehended two teenagers in connection with a high-speed chase involving a stolen vehicle in Claymont, Delaware. The incident took place on November 20, 2023, at around 9:48 p.m., when a patrolling trooper noticed a tan 2008 Volvo XC9 with Pennsylvania registration traveling at an excessive speed on Darley Road near the I-95 overpass.

Upon conducting a computer check of the Volvo’s license plate, the trooper discovered that the vehicle had been reported stolen from Troop 1 the previous day. Consequently, the trooper initiated a traffic stop. However, the driver of the stolen Volvo disregarded the police signal and attempted to flee, prompting a pursuit as the stolen vehicle accelerated westbound on Darley Road at an unsafe speed.

Eventually, the Volvo turned into a private parking lot, at which point the driver and the front passenger hastily exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Despite repeated verbal commands to stop, the two juvenile suspects continued to evade capture. After a brief chase, law enforcement officers successfully apprehended the driver, a 16-year-old male from Lewes, and the front passenger, a 15-year-old male from Claymont.

Upon taking the juveniles into custody, troopers discovered that the stolen Volvo had collided with an unoccupied parked van in the parking lot. This collision occurred due to the 16-year-old male’s failure to put the vehicle in park before exiting.

Following their arrest, the teenagers were transported to Troop 1, where they were charged with several offenses. The 16-year-old driver was charged with receiving stolen property over $1,500, disregarding a police officer’s signal, resisting arrest, criminal mischief, and multiple traffic violations. Meanwhile, the 15-year-old passenger faced similar charges.

Subsequently, the 16-year-old suspect appeared before the Justice of the Peace Court #11 for arraignment. After posting a $5,000 secured bond, he was released into the custody of a guardian. Similarly, the 15-year-old passenger appeared before the same court and was released on an unsecured bond of $1,000, also into the care of a guardian.

Law enforcement agencies in Delaware continue to combat auto theft and pursue individuals involved in such criminal activities. The successful apprehension of these two juveniles serves as a reminder of their commitment to maintaining public safety and ensuring that stolen vehicles are promptly recovered.

The Delaware State Police encourage citizens to report any suspicious activities or information related to auto theft to assist in preventing such crimes. By working together with law enforcement, the community can contribute to keeping Delaware’s streets safe and secure..