Wilmington Driver Held Without Bond After Crash Injures 9-Year-Old

Authorities say the driver faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges after allegedly driving impaired and crashing, leaving a child with a severe leg injury.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 7:49am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car side mirror reflecting the flashing lights of a police vehicle, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a serious traffic accident.The aftermath of a traffic accident involving an impaired driver exposes the devastating human toll of drunk driving.Wilmington Today

A 45-year-old Wilmington man has been arrested and held without bond after police say he crashed his vehicle while driving impaired, leaving a 9-year-old child with a severe leg injury. Court documents show the driver faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges and is due in court on Monday.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about impaired driving and the devastating impact it can have on innocent victims, especially children. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether repeat offenders should be released on bond, as well as the need for stricter enforcement and penalties to deter drunk and reckless driving.

The details

According to police reports, the driver, whose name has not been released, crashed his vehicle in a residential area of Wilmington, striking a 9-year-old pedestrian and causing severe leg injuries. The child was rushed to the hospital and is expected to recover, but the incident has shaken the community. Authorities say the driver has a history of prior impaired driving offenses and was out on bail for previous charges when this latest incident occurred.

  • The crash happened on the evening of April 19, 2026.
  • The driver is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, April 20, 2026.

The players

Wilmington Driver

A 45-year-old Wilmington resident who has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors related to the crash that injured a 9-year-old child.

9-Year-Old Victim

A child who was struck by the driver's vehicle and suffered severe leg injuries, but is expected to recover.

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What they’re saying

“We must do more to keep impaired drivers off our streets and protect innocent lives.”

— Mayor Judy Girard, Mayor of Wilmington

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Monday whether or not to allow the driver to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to combat drunk and reckless driving, including harsher penalties, better enforcement, and improved support systems for those struggling with substance abuse issues. The safety of all residents, especially vulnerable pedestrians, must be the top priority.