Sen. Chris Coons hospitalized after multi-vehicle crash in Delaware, expected to recover fully

Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) was transported to a Delaware hospital and treated for minor injuries after a multi-vehicle collision Sunday, June 28, according to a statement the senator posted on social media.

“Earlier today, a Delaware driver experienced a medical incident and collided with several cars, including one in which I was a passenger,” Coons wrote on X. “I was transported to Beebe Hospital and treated for minor injuries. I’m now home and expected to make a full and swift recovery.”

The crash occurred in Lewes, Delaware, where Coons was a passenger in a vehicle struck by a driver who suffered a sudden medical episode. No one involved in the accident was seriously injured, Coons said.

“I’m deeply grateful to the first responders for their prompt and professional response, including the Lewes Police Department, Lewes and Rehoboth Fire Departments, and Sussex County Emergency Medical Services, as well as the capable doctors and nurses at Beebe Hospital, where I received excellent care,” Coons wrote.

Coons, first elected to the Senate in 2010, is Delaware’s senior U.S. senator and the longest-serving member of the state’s current federal delegation. He serves as vice chair of the Senate Ethics Committee, a role that involves overseeing conduct of senators and staff, and previously chaired the panel.

Before his tenure in Washington, Coons served as New Castle County Executive and New Castle County President, giving him deep ties to local governance in Delaware. His expected full recovery means he is unlikely to miss significant Senate duties, though the incident briefly drew attention to traffic safety concerns involving medical emergencies behind the wheel.

The crash comes as Congress heads into a July 4 recess, giving Coons additional time to recuperate before the next scheduled votes. His office did not provide further details on the medical status of the other driver involved.