By Glenn RolfeSEAFORD — Seaford Volunteer Fire Department’s fire police captain remained hospitalized in serious condition Monday after being struck by an SUV while directing traffic Saturday.
The department’s public information officer, Ron Marvel, said Ken Tull, 83, was initially transported to TidalHealth Nanticoke in Seaford, then airlifted to ChristianaCare in Newark. Mr. Marvel said he was scheduled to undergo surgery Monday afternoon.
“It is probably going to be a long recovery,” said Mr. Marvel, adding that Mr. Tull has served SVFD in various capacities for 45 years.
Mr. Tull was directing traffic at the scene of an automobile accident Saturday around 10:31 p.m., when he was struck by a 2012 Dodge Journey, driven by William Purnell, 56, of Bridgeville, said Delaware State Police spokeswoman Master Cpl. Heather Pepper.
The incident occurred at the intersection of Camp and Cannon roads in Seaford.
According to Cpl. Pepper, Mr. Tull was wearing a high-visibility traffic vest and holding a lighted wand. In addition, the fire policeman’s vehicle, with emergency lights activated, was parked next to him, she said.
The Journey’s front center struck Mr. Tull, police said.
Through the course of the investigation, state police discovered that Mr. Purnell, who was uninjured during the incident, was driving under the influence of alcohol.
Among other charges, the suspect was arrested for first-degree vehicular assault (a felony). He was committed to Sussex Correctional Institution, Georgetown, on a $3,250 cash bond, Cpl. Pepper said.
