Police: Driver, Dog Die After Colliding Head On With State Trooper Vehicle In Delaware

DOVER, Del. (CBS) -- Delaware State Police responded to fatal motor vehicle crash which took place on SR1 southbound at Exit 98 Thursday evening.

Authorities say that shortly before 6:00 p.m., a collision occurred between a car and a state police vehicle.

Police say the trooper was airlifted to the hospital while the driver of the other car was pronounced dead.

Authorities have identified the victim as Daniel J. Gates.

Officials say the injuries sustained by the trooper were not life threatening. He was released from the hospital on Friday.

SR1 southbound at Exit 104 was closed temporarily.

Authorities say their investigation showed that a 77-year-old Gates was driving northbound in the southbound lanes of SR1 when he collided with the 22-year-old state trooper who was driving southbound.

Police say Gates was not properly restrained and that a family dog was also found dead in the vehicle.

Officials say alcohol does not appear to have been a factor.