Lewes, Delaware — The Delaware State Police have released the identities of the two cherished lives lost in the horrific five-vehicle crash that unfolded Friday afternoon, November 7, 2025, on Coastal Highway near Lewes. The victims have been identified as 62-year-old Charlene Broccolo and 64-year-old Albert Broccolo, a married couple from Bel Air, Maryland, remembered by family and friends as warm, loving, and deeply devoted to one another.
According to authorities, the chain-reaction collision occurred shortly after 3:30 p.m. in the northbound lanes of Route 1, near the intersection with Minos Conaway Road — an area that has seen a number of serious crashes in recent years due to heavy traffic and merging vehicles. Investigators say preliminary findings indicate that a pickup truck traveling northbound failed to slow down in time as traffic ahead began to back up, colliding into multiple vehicles and setting off a devastating sequence of impacts that involved five cars in total.
Emergency crews from Lewes Fire Department, Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company, and Sussex County EMS rushed to the scene within minutes, finding several vehicles mangled in the roadway. Despite rapid life-saving efforts, Charlene and Albert Broccolo were pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. Several others involved in the crash sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to Beebe Healthcare for evaluation.
The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing its investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Officials have not yet confirmed whether impairment, speed, or distracted driving played a role. Troopers temporarily closed both northbound lanes for several hours Friday evening as investigators documented the scene and crews worked to clear the wreckage.
News of the Broccolos’ tragic passing has left the community of Bel Air, Maryland, and beyond in mourning. Friends describe the couple as inseparable — partners in life, faith, and family. They were active members of their church and known for their kindness, generosity, and joyful spirit. Neighbors recalled how the two often spent weekends visiting Delaware’s beaches, a favorite retreat where they found peace and togetherness.
“Our hearts are completely broken,” said one family friend. “Charlene and Albert were the kind of people who made everyone around them feel loved. It’s impossible to imagine this world without their laughter and light.”
In the coming days, family members are expected to release details regarding memorial services, as the community rallies to offer support and comfort.
Delaware State Police continue to urge all motorists to exercise caution on Route 1 and to remain attentive, particularly in high-traffic areas and during weekend travel. Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around 3:30 p.m. on Friday to contact the DSP Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit.
As the investigation proceeds, the Broccolo family and the entire Bel Air and Lewes communities are left grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of two lives taken far too soon — a couple whose love for each other and for others will be forever remembered.
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