A Sussex County Grand Jury has handed down a murder indictment against 30-year-old Dempsey Fritchey of Lewes in connection with the death of his grandmother following a violent attack at a local hotel this past January.
Delaware State Police responded to the Hyatt House at 17254 Five Points Square in Lewes on January 29, 2026, around 5:45 p.m. after hotel employees were told by a guest that he had fatally attacked his grandmother in their room. Officers encountered Fritchey near the hotel lobby, where he informed them he believed he may have killed his grandmother. Police took him into custody without resistance. Inside the hotel room, officers discovered 72-year-old Elizabeth Fritchey unconscious with severe facial and head trauma. Emergency responders provided immediate medical care before transporting her to a local hospital in critical condition. She succumbed to her injuries on February 10, 2026.
The Sussex County Grand Jury issued the first-degree murder indictment against Fritchey on April 13, 2026. He continues to be held at the Delaware Department of Correction.
Crime victims, witnesses, or families affected by sudden death can access support through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center. Services are available around the clock via their toll-free helpline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461), or by contacting [email protected].
