Four people were shot early Saturday morning outside a Waffle House on Pulaski Highway in Bear, Delaware State Police said. The shootings left multiple victims with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and prompted an active investigation by Troop 2 detectives.
What police say happened
Troopers responded to the Waffle House at 1450 Pulaski Highway about 12:10 a.m. July 18. When officers arrived, three people with gunshot wounds were found and taken to a nearby hospital. A fourth victim, a 17-year-old girl, later arrived at the hospital in a personal vehicle, police said.
Authorities say a large crowd had gathered in the restaurant parking lot when an unknown person or persons opened fire. The suspect or suspects fled the scene before police arrived. All four victims were reported with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Victims and ongoing investigation
Police provided ages and hometowns for the victims. According to the report, they are:
- a 20-year-old man from New Castle
- a 19-year-old man from Bear
- An 18-year-old woman from Wilmington
- a 17-year-old girl from New Castle
The Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit is leading the inquiry. Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact Detective H. Carroll at 302-365-8467, send a private message to the Delaware State Police Facebook page, or contact Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-847-3333.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Waffle House, 1450 Pulaski Highway, Bear |
| Time | About 12:10 a.m., July 18 |
| Victims | Four people; ages 17–20; non-life-threatening injuries |
| Investigating unit | Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit |
Community impact and safety reminder
The shooting at a busy highway restaurant underscores continuing concerns about public safety in parking lot gatherings after hours. Incidents like this can strain local emergency services and leave residents seeking reassurance about patrols and prevention efforts. Police encourage witnesses to come forward to help identify the shooter or shooters and piece together what led to the violence.
Anyone who was in the area at the time and has video, photos or other information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact the numbers above. Tipsters can remain anonymous through Delaware Crime Stoppers.
