Michael Smith Obituary, Death – Delaware State Police are actively investigating a tragic multi-vehicle crash that occurred Friday afternoon in Lincoln, resulting in the death of a Virginia resident. The incident took place around 2 p.m. on October 17, 2025, at the intersection of US Route 113 and Johnson Road, involving three vehicles: a Hyundai Sonata, a Honda Accord, and a Freightliner tanker truck.
According to authorities, the Hyundai Sonata was traveling northbound on US 113 and began slowing as it approached a traffic light at Johnson Road. A Honda Accord was following directly behind the Hyundai and reportedly did not reduce its speed in time. As a result, the Honda struck the rear of the Hyundai. The force of the impact pushed the Hyundai into the intersection, where it collided with the side of a westbound Freightliner tanker truck.
The driver of the Hyundai was identified by Delaware State Police as 68-year-old Michael Smith of Portsmouth, Virginia. Emergency responders transported Smith to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. His family has been notified, and authorities are offering condolences during this difficult time.
The drivers of both the Honda and the Freightliner were reported to be uninjured. Police have not indicated any citations or charges at this time, as the investigation into the crash is ongoing. Investigators are focusing on gathering evidence from the scene, including vehicle positions, impact points, and any available surveillance footage that may provide additional insight into the events leading up to the collision.
Delaware State Police have requested that anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information contact them at 302-703-3264. Tips from the public are considered valuable in helping authorities understand the full circumstances of the incident and determining any contributing factors.
Preliminary assessments suggest that the crash was caused when the Honda failed to slow down as the Hyundai reduced speed for the traffic light, leading to a chain reaction that ultimately resulted in the Hyundai colliding with the tanker truck. Traffic safety experts note that intersections are often high-risk areas for such multi-vehicle incidents, particularly when drivers are unable to react quickly to slowing vehicles ahead.
Delaware State Police emphasized the importance of maintaining safe following distances, particularly in areas with traffic lights and high vehicle volumes. They also encouraged drivers to remain attentive and avoid distractions to prevent similar incidents.
The intersection of US 113 and Johnson Road is a commonly traveled corridor, connecting local and regional traffic, including commercial vehicles. Authorities plan to examine roadway conditions, traffic signal timing, and other environmental factors as part of the investigation to determine whether any additional safety measures may be warranted.
Officials have also noted that commercial vehicles, such as the Freightliner involved in this crash, require extra caution from all road users due to their size and stopping distance. While the driver of the tanker truck was unharmed, the collision underscores the importance of awareness around large vehicles on busy roadways.
As the investigation continues, Delaware State Police are reviewing all aspects of the crash to provide a complete report. This includes vehicle inspections, driver statements, and any available dashcam or security footage from nearby businesses or homes.
The community in Lincoln is mourning the loss of Michael Smith, a resident of Portsmouth, Virginia, whose life was tragically cut short. Authorities have stressed that ongoing investigations are crucial to understanding the incident and preventing similar accidents in the future.
Police officials continue to urge anyone with information to come forward to assist with their investigation, ensuring that all details are accounted for and that safety lessons can be reinforced for drivers in the area.
