Tragic Easter Morning Shooting Leaves Two Dead Near Dover, Delaware
DOVER, Del. — A quiet Easter Sunday morning was shattered by violence in Dover, Delaware, as emergency crews responded to a deadly shooting that left two people dead. The incident unfolded just after 7:30 a.m. on March 31, 2025, at the intersection of Sharon Hill Road and Cahoon Branch Road, in a rural area just outside the city limits, not far from New Hope Church.
According to initial reports from emergency responders, a male and a female victim were found deceased at the scene, each having sustained gunshot wounds. The area was immediately declared a crime scene, and law enforcement began securing the perimeter and collecting evidence as part of an active and ongoing investigation.
The Scene and Initial Response
Residents in the vicinity reported being startled awake by the sound of sirens and the heavy presence of police vehicles and emergency crews. Some neighbors said they heard what may have been gunfire earlier in the morning, though those reports remain unconfirmed.
Responding units from Delaware State Police and local emergency services were quick to the scene, but sadly, there was nothing that could be done for the two victims, both of whom were pronounced dead upon arrival. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
The intersection where the incident occurred is located in a quiet, semi-rural area, often traveled by locals heading to church services or commuting into Dover. The proximity to New Hope Church has only deepened the heartbreak, as the Easter holiday is typically a time of joy, renewal, and family gatherings.
Investigation Underway
Delaware State Police are leading the investigation and have been tight-lipped about any potential motives, suspects, or whether the shooting appears to be domestic in nature or the result of another kind of dispute. Detectives have been seen canvassing the area, speaking with possible witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage from nearby homes or buildings.
A mobile crime lab was brought in to process the scene, and yellow evidence markers dotted the roadside throughout the morning as investigators worked to piece together the timeline of events.
Officials are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on Easter morning to come forward. Tipsters can remain anonymous and are encouraged to contact the Delaware State Police Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit.
Community Reaction and Grief
The double shooting has sent shockwaves through the Dover community, especially given the timing on one of the most sacred days on the Christian calendar. Residents and church members nearby have expressed a mix of sorrow, disbelief, and growing concern about rising violence in the region.
“This is heartbreaking,” said a local pastor who wished to remain anonymous. “We were preparing for our Easter service when we heard what happened. It’s hard to find the words when something so tragic takes place literally in your backyard — on a day that’s supposed to be about hope.”
Awaiting Official Updates
As of Monday morning, the Delaware State Police have not released further details regarding the cause of the shooting or any persons of interest. Authorities say they will provide updates to the public as soon as more information is available and confirmed.
In the meantime, the Dover community is left grieving the loss of two lives and grappling with the sobering reality that senseless violence can erupt anywhere — even on a morning meant to celebrate peace and resurrection.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or submit tips online.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as additional details emerge.