The Wilmington Police Department has launched an investigation into a harrowing hit-and-run incident that left three women critically injured in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Pamela Dupree expressed deep gratitude, emphasizing that it’s through the grace of God that her daughter Jasmin has survived the ordeal.
“She has endured horrific trauma and is left with severe scarring,” said Dupree regarding her daughter’s condition.
The 35-year-old victim underwent emergency surgery on Saturday after being violently struck by a hit-and-run driver on the 1600 block of Delaware Avenue, located within Wilmington’s bustling Trolley Square neighborhood.
Known for its vibrant dining and entertainment scene, Trolley Square attracts large crowds, particularly on the weekends, making the incident even more shocking.
Dupree quickly traveled from her home in Pittsburgh upon receiving the distressing call from the hospital about her daughter’s injuries.
“The surgeons had to perform reconstructive surgery on her bladder to manage the significant internal bleeding she sustained,” Dupree explained, indicating the severity of the situation.
“Seeing my sister in the hospital bed broke me. It devastated me. I just broke down and cried because I’ve never seen her in that much pain. This is so hard,” said Joi Dupree, Jasmin’s sister, conveying the emotional turmoil their family is experiencing.
Dupree confirmed that her daughter was not alone; she was accompanied by her 36-year-old friend and another woman, aged 33. All three women were struck around 2 a.m. and rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Dupree remarked that her daughter’s friend has suffered even more severe injuries and has required multiple medical procedures since the incident.
“She is just unresponsive. Her family visited Jasmin, and we stood together in tears, embracing each other in our shared grief,” Dupree added, highlighting the bond of support amid their pain.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash, but reports indicate that the driver fled the scene without stopping.
Dupree conveyed a heartfelt message directed at the individual responsible for the incident: “You can run but you can’t hide. You will be found because what you sow, you will reap. One way or another, someone will turn you in.” This statement underscores the family’s determination for justice.
“It’s kind of hard to believe this is a nice area… really don’t hear too much about that going on around here,” remarked local resident Chaz Crews, expressing his astonishment at the occurrence of such violence in Trolley Square, where he frequently enjoys the lively atmosphere of establishments like the Trolley Tap House.
As the investigation unfolds, police have not yet disclosed any details regarding the driver or the vehicle involved in this traumatic incident.
The Wilmington Police Department’s Special Operations Division, particularly the Traffic Unit, is actively leading the investigation into this hit-and-run case.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or possesses relevant video footage to reach out to Master Corporal Paul Simonds at (302) 553-1598, as every bit of information could aid in solving this case.
How have community members supported your family during this difficult time?
**Interview with Pamela Dupree, Mother of Hit-and-Run Victim**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Pamela. Can you start by sharing the emotional journey you’ve been on since the incident?
**Pamela Dupree**: Thank you for having me. It’s hard to put into words. The moment I got the call from the hospital, my heart sank. I rushed from Pittsburgh to Wilmington, praying that my daughter, Jasmin, would make it through. It has been a rollercoaster of emotions, but I’m grateful she is alive; it’s through the grace of God that she survived this horrific ordeal.
**Editor**: What can you tell us about Jasmin’s condition following the accident?
**Pamela Dupree**: She’s endured severe trauma. The surgeons had to perform reconstructive surgery on her bladder due to significant internal bleeding. She has a long road ahead of her. There are severe scars, both physically and emotionally. It breaks my heart to see her in this pain.
**Editor**: And how is your family coping with this situation?
**Pamela Dupree**: It’s incredibly difficult. Seeing my daughter in that hospital bed tore me apart. Joi, her sister, has been devastated too. She said she had never seen Jasmin in such agony. Our family is struggling to support one another through this painful time.
**Editor**: This incident happened in Trolley Square, a lively area known for its dining and entertainment. What are your thoughts on the location and the timing of the incident?
**Pamela Dupree**: Trolley Square is typically a vibrant place, especially on weekends. It’s shocking that something so tragic could happen there, in the middle of the night, when so many people are out enjoying themselves. This could have been anyone’s child or sibling. We all need to be more vigilant and supportive of each other in our community.
**Editor**: What message do you have for the person responsible for this hit-and-run?
**Pamela Dupree**: If you’re out there, you need to take responsibility for your actions. Hiding from this won’t change what happened or the pain you’ve caused. I hope you find it in your heart to come forward. My daughter, her friends, and our family deserve answers, and we need justice.
**Editor**: Thank you for sharing your story, Pamela. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this challenging time.
**Pamela Dupree**: Thank you. I appreciate the support.
