WILMINGTON, Del. – Yesterday, Delaware celebrated extraordinary women at the annual Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. The event honored this year’s inductees, which included Valerie Biden Owens, Claire DeMatteis, Charlotte King, and Charlotte Miller-Lacy, recognizing their leadership, dedication, and lasting impact on their communities, professions, and the state.

The evening included speeches, formal recognition of the honorees, and highlights showcasing their accomplishments. The ceremony was livestreamed, giving family, friends, and the public the opportunity to watch and celebrate the inductees.

“The Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame highlights the incredible talent and courage of women across our state,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “These honorees set an example for future generations and demonstrate the impact women have in shaping Delaware’s future.”

“I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate these remarkable women alongside their families, friends, state officials, and our special guest, former President Joe Biden. The night was extraordinary, joyful, and a true reflection of their unique contributions to our beloved Delaware. It was my honor to serve them and an experience I will cherish forever,” said Sherese Brewington-Carr, Director of the Office on Women’s Advancement and Advocacy.

“It’s such a joy to celebrate women who’ve made a real difference in Delaware. Their example encourages others to dream big and lead boldly,” said Brenda Wise, Chair of the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame Committee.

The ceremony offered a moment to recognize leadership, dedication, and achievement, celebrating the women who continue to make Delaware stronger and more vibrant.

Watch the ceremony recording here: OWAA’s YouTube

View event photos on: OWAA’s Flickr (More photos from the event will be released as soon as they become available.)

To learn more about the 2025 honorees, visit here, and explore all 170 inductees of the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame here.

About the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame

Established in 1981, the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame is the state’s oldest annual celebration recognizing Delaware women. Inductees represent diverse backgrounds, including artists, athletes, community advocates, military personnel, public servants, and scientists. Nominees must have made an important and lasting impact on the lives of Delawareans and have resided in the state for at least 10 years.

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WILMINGTON, Del. (WPVI) — Three years after her son was fatally shot in West Philadelphia, Kameelah Torrance is still searching for answers and justice.

Samyr Walker, 19, was killed on September 4, 2022, while delivering food in his mother’s car. Torrance said Walker’s own vehicle had broken down the night before, prompting him to borrow hers to earn extra money.

“I get a phone call, I’m thinking it’s him,” Torrance recalled.

Philadelphia police said the shooting occurred around 1:45 p.m. at the Chick-A-Boom restaurant drive-thru on 46th Street and Lancaster Avenue. While waiting for his food, Walker reportedly had an interaction with another driver.

“What I’m guessing is maybe he was on his phone and he accidentally tapped the bumper, which is what happened,” Torrance said.

Police said the altercation escalated when gunshots were fired from the suspect’s car as Walker exited his vehicle to retrieve his order. A passenger in Walker’s car also returned fire. Authorities believe the motive was road rage.

According to the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, detectives located the vehicle believed to be involved and interviewed both the owner and the reported driver. However, no arrests have been made.

The DA’s office said it has extended victim support services to Walker’s family and the affected community.

Torrance described her son, affectionately called “Meer Meer,” as “a very happy-go-lucky kid.”

“Every time you see him, he was always smiling, silly, liked to have fun, very family oriented,” said Torrance.

She said the lack of closure has made the loss even harder to bear.

“No closure, sleepless nights, it’s just been horrible,” she said. “It’s not fair that my son is gone and you’re walking around free, freely doing whatever. His life was cut short.”

Torrance said she still texts Walker’s phone number and mourns the future he was denied.

“He won’t be able to get married, have children, become something of himself. He was robbed of that and it’s not fair,” she said.

Police say the investigation remains active and ongoing. Torrance and law enforcement are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Delaware State Police have identified 14-year-old Reis Yoc-Santos, of Dover, Delaware, as the teenager who died in the fatal crash involving a school bus and an electric bicycle that occurred Friday afternoon in Dover.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information is asked to contact Master Corporal W. Booth at (302) 698-8451. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.

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