Delaware
Friends, family honor 17-year-old killed in Delaware County crash with vigil
RIDLEY TOWNSHIP, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — A Delaware County community came together on Saturday night to honor the life of a local teen who was killed in a car crash earlier this week.
In just 17 years, Damien Hocker left a lifelong impact in Ridley Township and beyond, especially on his friends.
“He was a great person,” said Patience Dorell. “Always brought light to every situation.”
17-year-old Damien Hocker
“Damien was a very sweet, kind, loving person,” added Kyla Banks. “He was always there for everybody at the hardest times.”
Hocker was walking home from the gym Tuesday night when police said he was struck and killed by a vehicle on West MacDade Boulevard and Fairview Road in Ridley Township.
Witnesses said the driver initially left the scene but returned shortly after. Police said the driver was interviewed and later released.
Pedestrian injured after being hit by car in Ridley Township, Delaware County
Friends and family shared endless memories of Hocker through tears and some laughter at a candlelight vigil at Ridley Park Lake Saturday night.
“He was loving, caring,” said Hocker’s brother, Bryant Colp. “Whenever he loved something, he wouldn’t let go of it.”
Colp said his brother had a passion for music and fitness.
Friends recalled how heartbroken they were upon hearing that Hocker was killed.
“I just dropped on the floor and I just bawled,” said Dorell. “I don’t think I’ve ever hurt so much in my life.”
In light of the immense tragedy, Hocker’s family says they have been supported by the tight-knit community.
“Our house hasn’t been quiet once,” said Colp. “We’ve had people in and out, and I think that’s helped.”
As well as finding strength in these moments, loved ones stood together and supported each other as they honored their beloved Hocker.
Vigil held for Damien Hocker in Ridley Township, Delaware County
“Everyone’s staying strong for him, and we’ll always remember him for the kind and courageous person he was,” said Kyle Luner.
“I hope he’s looking down and watching us gather to be here for him,” said Banks.
Hocker also saved several lives as an organ donor when he died, officials say.
As of Saturday night, it is unclear if the driver in this incident has been charged. Anyone with information on the crash should contact the police.
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BOWERS BEACH, Del. – Delaware State Police say a body was found near Bowers Beach on Tuesday.
Around 12:40 p.m. on April 21, Delaware State Police, Delaware Natural Resources Police and local fire companies responded to the Delaware Bay, about a mile offshore from the Bowers Beach area after commercial watermen discovered an unknown deceased man in the water.
The victim was recovered and turned over to the Office of Forensic Science for identification and to determine the cause of death.
The investigation remains active and on-going.
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Here are some stories you may have missed this week in central Ohio.
The Humane Society of Delaware County has appointed a new leader as the organization’s longtime director moves toward retirement.
The animal rescue group’s board appointed Amanda Wampler as its new CEO, effective May 11, the organization posted on Facebook April 21.
Jana Cassidy, the humane society’s executive director for nearly a decade, is transitioning toward retirement and will now serve as chief operating officer in the near term to ensure a smooth transition.
The post from society Board President Megan Ricci says the board is confident Cassidy’s and Wampler’s experience, dedication and talents will elevate the humane society as it strives to build a new 22,000-square-foot facility that will be a go-to destination for adoption, veterinary care, training, boarding, and grooming.
“HSDC could not be in better hands than with these two extraordinary women,” the post reads.
Wampler is a proven nonprofit executive with experience in animal welfare and a demonstrated ability to help organizations expand and thrive, according to the humane society’s post.
Wampler currently is the national operations director for Siemer Institute, a Columbus-based organization that helps families across the U.S. achieve housing stability and enhance their children’s educational prospects, according to Wampler’s LinkedIn page. She also worked for the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department from 2016 to 2023.
Delaware County and eastern Columbus suburbs reporter Maria DeVito can be reached at mdevito@dispatch.com and @mariadevito13.dispatch.com on Bluesky and @MariaDeVito13 on X
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 5:44AM
WILMINGTON, Del. (WPVI) — Something exciting is taking flight in the hallways of Warner Elementary School in Wilmington.
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer helped celebrate the launch of the state’s first elementary school streaming radio station on Tuesday.
“Flying High with Thunderbird Radio” will provide students with hands-on experience in broadcasting, public speaking, and content creation.
This innovative initiative empowers students to step behind the microphone and lead the way in digital storytelling, communication, and creativity.
Copyright © 2026 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.
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