Delaware Troopers Cleared in Separate Fatal Shootings Following DOJ Investigations
The Delaware Department of Justice (DOJ) has concluded that Delaware State Police troopers were justified in using deadly force in two separate shooting incidents that occurred in 2023 and 2024, according to a report released on April 30, 2026. No criminal charges will be filed against the troopers involved in either incident.
2023 Bridgeville Shooting
On October 4, 2023, troopers responded to a reported home invasion in Bridgeville, Delaware, shortly before 11:00 p.m. The suspect, later identified as 23-year-old Jordan James, allegedly forced his way into a residence with a firearm. After fleeing the scene, James was reported by a Perdue AgriBusiness Feed Mill employee who stated a coworker was armed with a gun.
According to the DOJ report, troopers encountered James approaching them at the feed mill. A trooper instructed James to show his hands, but James discharged his firearm in an unknown direction before attempting to flee. James fired his weapon a second time before a trooper returned fire twice, resulting in his death.
The DOJ’s review of body camera footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence led to the conclusion that James’s actions presented an “imminent threat,” and the trooper’s use of force was reasonable under Delaware law. Authorities stated the trooper’s use of deadly force was “justified for the purpose of self-protection and the protection of others.”
2024 Dover-Area Shooting
The second incident occurred at a senior living facility near Dover, Delaware, in June 2024. The DOJ report determined that the use of deadly force was also necessary in this case to protect troopers and others, following a thorough investigation. Specific details of the Dover shooting were not included in the available reports.
These decisions follow lengthy investigations conducted by the Delaware Department of Justice, affirming the troopers’ actions were in accordance with state law.