University of Delaware senior killed in Newark car accident

A University of Delaware student is dead following an early morning car accident in Newark on Sunday.

The university gave its condolences following news of the death of 22-year-old Alexis DeFrancesco, a Hartley native.

“On behalf of the entire University of Delaware community, we extend our deepest sympathies to Ms. DeFrancesco’s family and friends,” said José-Luis Riera, dean of students at UD. “We are all truly saddened by this tragic accident.”

According to Delaware State police, 22-year-old De’ayre J. Ewing-Wright of Bear drove his 2007 Nissan Pathfinder through the red light on Route 40, crossing into the intersection of Brookmont Drive. The pathfinder struck the passenger side of a 2013 Nissan Altima driven by 18-year-old Alec E. Clark of Wilmington around 1:17 a.m. Sunday.

DeFrancesco who was riding in the passenger seat of the Altima, was transported to the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center, where she was pronounced dead.

Both Clark and Ewing-Wright were also taken to Christiana Hospital and are both in critical condition.

DeFrancesco, a fashion merchandising major, was scheduled to graduate at the end of the fall semester.