One Dead in Fiery Weekend Crash near Harbeson

Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal single motor vehicle collision that occurred in the Harbeson area Saturday night.

On April 8, 2023, at approximately 9:20 p.m., a 2007 GMC Yukon operated by 47-year-old Robert Coulbourne Jr. of Milton, Delaware, was traveling at a high speed eastbound on Lewes-Georgetown Highway (Route 9) approaching a slight right curve just west of Harbeson Road (Route 5). For unknown reasons, the operator failed to maintain control of the vehicle and crossed the center line of the road and into the westbound lane.

The GMC continued to travel in an easterly direction as it crossed through the intersection of Harbeson Road. The GMC then exited the north edge of the roadway and continued eastbound, through the front yards of several residences, until the front of the vehicle struck a utility pole. After impact, the vehicle caught fire and was partially engulfed in flames.

Coulbourne was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Lewes-Georgetown Highway between Harbeson Road and Hudson Road was closed for approximately 2.5 hours while the crash was investigated, and the roadway was cleared.

The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this collision. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this collision to please contact Corporal/1 M. Kristunas by calling 302-703-3275. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

Source: Delaware State Police Newsroom