DOVER, DE — A tragic accident in Dover has claimed the life of 14-year-old Reis Landon Yoc-Santos, a student at Caesar Rodney High School, after a collision involving an electric bicycle on West Lebanon Road. The fatal incident has left his family, classmates, and the wider community mourning the sudden loss of a young life filled with promise.
According to Delaware State Police, the crash occurred late Friday evening as Reis was riding his e-bike along West Lebanon Road, a busy stretch of highway that connects residential neighborhoods with commercial areas. Investigators say a vehicle traveling along the roadway struck the teenager under circumstances that remain under review. Emergency crews responded quickly, but despite their efforts, Reis was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not released details about the driver involved, but officials confirmed the motorist remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. No charges have been filed at this time, and troopers are examining factors such as visibility, speed, and traffic conditions at the time of the crash.
Reis’s death has sent shockwaves through Caesar Rodney High School, where grief counselors are being made available to students and staff. Known to his peers as a bright and energetic student, Reis was remembered for his kindness, humor, and the strong friendships he built in the school community. “He had this ability to make everyone laugh,” one classmate said. “It doesn’t feel real that he’s gone.”
Family members have described Reis as a loving son, brother, and friend, whose curiosity and joy for life made him a source of light to those around him. His passing, they say, has left a void that can never be filled.
The tragedy has also reignited concerns about roadway safety for cyclists and e-bike riders in Delaware. Advocates stress that increased education, better infrastructure, and stricter enforcement are needed to protect young riders, particularly on high-traffic roads like West Lebanon.
“Our hearts are broken for the Yoc-Santos family,” a spokesperson for Delaware State Police said. “This is an unimaginable loss, and we extend our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved Reis.”
As the investigation continues, the community is rallying around the Yoc-Santos family, offering prayers, support, and memorial gestures to honor the memory of a teenager whose life ended far too soon.
For Caesar Rodney High School, Dover, and beyond, the name Reis Landon Yoc-Santos will be remembered not only for the way he died, but for the vibrancy, laughter, and love he brought during his 14 years of life.
