Freshman student at the University of Delaware from New Jersey hit and killed by speeding motorcycle

NEWARK, Del. (WPVI) – A first-year student at the University of Delaware was struck and killed by a speeding motorcycle on Tuesday evening.

The student, an 18-year-old woman from New Jersey, was struck while she was in a crosswalk on West Main Street near North College Avenue just minutes before midnight.

Authorities say the victim's name has not been released pending notification of family.

According to Newark police, the incident began at 11:53 p.m. when a University of Delaware police officer attempted to stop the motorcycle at the corner of East Main Street and South Chapel Street for a traffic violation.

According to police, the motorcyclist ignored the police vehicle's flashing blue lights and sped away.

The university officer turned off the hazard lights and did not pursue the motorcycle, Newark police said.

About a minute later, the motorcycle hit the student and killed her.

The motorcyclist fell, but the motorcycle continued on the sidewalk of West Main Street, injuring four other pedestrians.

According to the police, passers-by tried unsuccessfully to save the student. She was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

“I feel terrible for her family and everyone who was there and witnessed it,” said Courtney May, a third-year student.

“As a parent, I can't imagine sending your child to school to see the world and then leaving home and unfortunately getting that early morning call or visit. It's really tragic,” said Newark Police Sergeant Jay Conover.

The university's statement said that many of her friends and fellow students witnessed the accident.

“Incidents like this are tragic beyond imagination. We cannot express enough our condolences to the family, friends and the entire community as we are all deeply saddened by the sudden loss of one of our members. Our hearts are very heavy today,” President Dennis Assanis and Vice President for Student Life José-Luis Riera said in the statement.

Three of the pedestrians hit by the motorcycle suffered minor injuries. One was taken to hospital with injuries that are believed to be non-life-threatening.

The motorcyclist was also taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Newark police said the accident is still under investigation.

The students said they are currently brainstorming ideas to increase their own safety and to commemorate this student who tragically lost her life.

“She only had one day of college classes,” May said. “I think that's why a lot of people are rallying around and saying, 'This just can't happen.'”

The university says resources are available for students who need assistance. For more information, visit this page on UDel.edu.