Girl, 11, dies after being struck by minivan

An 11-year-old Delaware girl died last night after being struck by a minivan in front of her home in Newark.

Cidmarie Brown was playing with her 20-month-old sister on the 2000 block of Pleasant Valley Road.

As their mother stood nearby, a Chrysler Town and Country minivan heading north hit the older child about 7:40 at the entrance of the driveway, said Cpl. Jeff Whitmarsh, spokesman for the Delaware state police.

Brown was rushed to Christiana Hospital where she later died of her injuries. Her sister, who was not struck by the minivan, was also admitted for observation, Whitmarsh said.

Investigators are trying to determine if the van drifted into the driveway or if the girl darted into the street.

Troopers this morning had not filed charges against the driver of the minivan, Jared J. Thompson, 18, of Newark.

Witnesses are are asked to call 302-834-2620 ext. 278.