Monthly Archives: January 2026

01.14.26
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HOME IMPROVEMENT FRAUD SUSPECT WANTED

(Wilmington, DE 19808) – The New Castle County Division of Police is seeking 58-year-old Richard Kirchner of Elkton, MD, who is wanted in connection with multiple home improvement frauds.

On January 14, 2026, Officer responded to multiple addresses on South Tupelo Turn in the Pepper Ridge Townhouse community. During the investigation, Officers determined that Richard Kirchner allegedly approached individuals at local home improvement stores in December 2025, claiming to be a contractor affiliated with those businesses.

Richard Kirchner is accused of accepting deposits for installations and other home improvement projects that were never completed. Police believe there may be additional victims.

Anyone with information regarding Kirchner’s whereabouts or this incident is urged to contact S/Cpl. Stearne by email at Rodney.Stearne@newcastlede.gov or by calling the Police non-emergency number at (302) 573-2800, or by dialing 911.

01.13.26
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PALADIN CLUB SHOOTING INVESTIGATION & GOLD ALERT UPDATE

UPDATE (1/13/2026 | 8:25 p.m.): Jacob Nieves has been located, and the Gold Alert has been canceled.

On Monday, January 12, 2026, at approximately 9:16 p.m., Officers with the New Castle County Division of Police responded to a report of a shooting in the 8000 block of Park Court at the Paladin Club Apartments.

Preliminary investigation indicates that an altercation occurred outside the apartment complex, resulting in a 15-year-old female being struck by gunfire and a 44-year-old female sustaining a minor injury from debris related to the shooting.

The 15-year-old female sustained a gunshot wound to her lower body. Responding Officers immediately rendered medical aid until paramedics arrived. She was transported to a local hospital, treated, and is currently listed in stable condition.

The 44-year-old female was evaluated at a local hospital as a precaution and was later released.

During the incident, 16-year-old Jacob Nieves was also in the area and fled following the altercation. At this time, Detectives have no indication that Jacob was injured; however, he has not returned to his residence, causing concern for his family.

The New Castle County Division of Police has issued a Gold Alert for Jacob Nieves following the incident. For more information, please visit: Gold Alert: Missing Juvenile Jacob Nieves.

If you witnessed the event or have any related video footage or additional information regarding this incident, contact Detective Elwood by email at Daniel.Elwood@newcastlede.gov or (302) 395-2761

01.12.26
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SHOOTING INVESTIGATION-PALADIN CLUB

(Wilmington, DE 19802) Officers with the New Castle County Division of Police are currently on scene investigating a shooting in the 8000 block of Park Court at the Paladin Club Apartments.

Residents can expect road closures, an increased police presence, and the potential for other emergency vehicles in the area.

Please avoid the area and use alternate routes.

Additional updates will be shared as more information becomes available.