UPDATED STORY: 51-year-old woman dies after Route 1 motorcycle crash
SMYRNA, DELAWARE (8/8/2016) A motorcycle crash that jammed Route 1 on Sunday night sent a brother and sister to a hospital, Delaware State Police said today.
Initial reports from police had indicated this was a fatal crash.
It happened at exit 119 (north Smyrna) about 8 p.m.
Police said James E. Smith, 53, of Dover was operating a 2007 Honda VTX1300R motorcycle southbound in the right lane.
“Due to an alleged mechanical malfunction, Smith lost control of the motorcycle which ejected both him and his sister onto the ground,” Master Cpl. Gary Fournier said.
James Smith was taken by ambulance to Bayhealth Kent General Hospital in Dover, where he was treated for undetermined injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening.
His sister, Kimberly Smith, 51, of Dover, was flown by state police helicopter to Bayhealth Kent General where through advanced lifesaving efforts by paramedics, Fournier said, she was admitted in critical condition.
Troopers are still investigating the crash but Fournier said speed and alcohol do not appear to be factors.
Southbound Route 1 was closed about 3½ hours. Major delays also were reported in the northbound lanes.