SEAFORD, DE — A 32-year-old man was shot and killed in Seaford Tuesday evening, marking the second deadly shooting in the area in just under a month, according to Delaware State Police.
The shooting occurred around the block from Williams Pond Park — home of the Nanticoke Little League — and happened while players and coaches were getting ready for practice.
The incident forced an immediate cancellation of practice and evacuation of the field. This marks the second time in a month that gunfire near the park has disrupted the youth baseball activities.
On March 12, 23-year-old Schweitzer Dessin was shot and killed nearby at Nutter Park and Collins Avenue.
“I don't know what kind of message we're sending to the kids today. They're not even safe to come out and practice a sport they love, and you know, learn and grow" said Little League President Steve Mullin, "it's just frustrating,”
He said the league had already put a safety plan in place years ago in case of a shooting.
"I really commend our board and our coaches for the last couple times of taking care of the situation, clearing the ballpark, and those kind of things. But I guess, it's one of those things, that may happen again and we may have to deal with it," Mullin added.
He said an incident like this goes against everything the kids learn on the diamond,
“It’s not always about throwing and catching the ball, it’s learning how to be good teammates, work together, set goals, that kind of thing,” Mullen said.
Coach Justin Ellsworth was among those who had to call families to explain why practice was canceled — again.
“The gun violence in the area has got to come to a stop. Just being next to a sporting complex, and having to evacuate it, it’s just sad for the little kids that are trying to just enjoy the sport that they love to play.”
As of Monday, there have been no arrests. Delaware State Police continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information to come forward.