Full Breakdown
65-Year-Old Man Killed When Camel Topples on Him in Felton, Delaware
7/3/2026, 10:19:36 PM
Fatal Incident on Indian Point Road
On Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at approximately 7 p.m., a 65-year-old man was fatally injured after a camel fell onto him while he was tending to the animal. The incident occurred on Indian Point Road in the town of Felton, Delaware. Police identified the victim only by age and have not released his name or additional personal details. The Delaware State Police confirmed that the camel’s collapse caused fatal injuries and that no further information will be disclosed.
Legal Context for Exotic Animal Ownership in Delaware
Delaware permits private ownership of camels under a Department of Agriculture Exotic Animal Permit. The state’s regulations require permit holders to meet specific standards for housing, care, and public safety, though the exact conditions of the victim’s permit were not disclosed. The legality of camel ownership frames the incident within the broader framework of exotic-animal regulation in the state.
Camel Size and Weight Data
Camels vary considerably in dimensions:
- Bactrian camels measure 10–11.5 feet in length, stand 5.2–5.9 feet at the shoulder, and weigh 990–1,100 pounds.
- Dromedary camels range 7.2–11.2 feet long, stand 5.9–6.6 feet at the shoulder, and weigh 880–1,320 pounds.
These figures illustrate the substantial mass involved when a camel collapses, underscoring the inherent risk in handling such large animals.
Official Statements from Delaware State Police
Spokesman David Huynh briefed the media, stating that the victim was engaged in routine care of his camel when the animal unexpectedly fell, resulting in death. Huynh emphasized that the investigation is ongoing but declined to provide further details, reiterating the department’s policy of withholding additional information pending the outcome of the inquiry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While tending to his camel, the animal fell on the 65-year-old male, resulting in his death,” — David Huynh, Delaware State Police spokesman
- “It is legal to own a camel in Delaware with a Department of Agriculture Exotic Animal Permit.” — Delaware Department of Agriculture (policy description)
- “How to keep them safe Police will not be releasing any other information on the incident, he added.” — David Huynh, Delaware State Police spokesman
- “A 65-year-old Delaware man has died after a camel fell on top of him, police said.” — NBC Philadelphia report
What’s Next: Ongoing Investigation
Delaware State Police have indicated that the case remains under investigation, but no timeline for release of additional findings has been provided. The incident may prompt a review of safety protocols for exotic-animal owners, though officials have not confirmed any forthcoming policy changes.
