NEWPORT, DE— A Wilmington teenager has been arrested in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred at a Newport gas station earlier this month. The Delaware State Police announced the arrest of 18-year-old Denny Cordero-Pion on charges including first-degree murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The incident took place on the night of February 5, 2025. Officers from both the Newport Police Department and Delaware State Police responded at approximately 9:10 p.m. to reports of a shooting in the parking lot of the Exxon located at 20 N. James Street in Newport. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered 23-year-old Dinexvi Soriano Gonzalez suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Initial investigations revealed that two groups of individuals had gathered at the Exxon with the intention of engaging in a physical altercation. During the confrontation, an unidentified individual allegedly produced a firearm and fired several shots, striking Soriano Gonzalez. According to police, the suspect fled the scene in an unknown vehicle shortly after the shooting.
After an intensive investigation conducted by the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit, detectives identified Cordero-Pion as the suspect in the shooting. On February 10, 2025, he was apprehended without incident in Wilmington.
Following his arrest, Cordero-Pion was transported to Troop 2, where he was formally charged with first-degree murder and a firearm-related offense. He was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court 2 and is currently being held at the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $2.1 million cash bond.
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit continues to investigate the case and is urging community members to come forward with any additional information. Authorities have asked that tips related to the case be directed to Detective M. Csapo by calling 302-741-2729. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Law enforcement has emphasized that all parties involved in criminal proceedings are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Officials also noted that details of the investigation may evolve as new evidence comes to light.
As authorities work to uncover more information, they remain focused on pursuing justice for the victim and maintaining public safety. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and assist law enforcement in their efforts to conclude this investigation.
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