Delaware State Police
News Release

DSP News Release: Wednesday, January 21, 2009- Road Rage Suspect Charged with Ramming Vehicle Occupied by Two Adults and a Child

Location of Incident: Route 48 just west of Route 141, Wilmington, Delaware, New Castle County

Date and Time of Occurrence: Tuesday, January 20, 2009, 10:30 a.m.

Suspects: Daphne E. Robertson, 43, of Wilmington

Resume: Yesterday morning, Troopers were called to the area of Route 48, just west of Route 141, for a two vehicle crash.

This investigation revealed a 2003 Honda Pilot, operated by a 24-year-old Wilmington man, and his 24-year-old fiancé and their 2-year-old son, were traveling southbound on Route 141 when this vehicle moved to the right turn lane for Route 48 westbound.  When the Honda changed lanes and proceeded forward, a BMW, operated by Daphne Johnson, beeped her horn apparently at her displeasure with the Honda, as the BMW began to also move to the right turn lane as well.   It was noted by the operator of the Honda that the rear tail-light of the BMW was broken and he was unaware of the driver’s intention on changing lanes too.

Both vehicles made the right onto Route 48 westbound.  The Honda was now ahead in the right lane.  Suddenly, the BMW pulled up alongside the Honda and swerved directly into the side of the SUV striking same.  The BMW, however, spun out of control, traveled in front of the Honda, and the two vehicles collided again.  Finally, both vehicles ended up on the right shoulder.

A witness at the scene advised it was in fact the BMW that struck the Honda.

At the scene, Ms. Robertson, advised she was upset with the operator of the Honda as she felt as though the SUV cut her off.  Ms. Robertson was transported back to Troop 6 where she was charged with felony level Criminal Mischief and three counts of Reckless Endangering (misdemeanor).  She was released on a $4,500.00 unsecured bond. 

Daphne Robertson