Millsboro Man Charged with First-Degree Murder of Elderly Relative

Delaware State Police have charged 40-year-old John Sulecki with first-degree murder after he allegedly shot and killed a 72-year-old female family member during an argument at a Millsboro home Thursday. A family member who witnessed the incident fled the scene and called 911, leading to Sulecki's arrest without incident.

Delaware State Police have taken a 40-year-old Millsboro resident into custody on first-degree murder charges following the fatal shooting of an elderly family member Thursday afternoon.

John Sulecki was arrested after allegedly shooting a 72-year-old female relative during a domestic dispute at a home on White Pine Drive in The Pines at Long Neck community around 12:10 p.m. on March 19, 2026.

According to investigators, another family member witnessed the shooting and fled the residence before calling emergency services to report that Sulecki was armed and had fired at the victim during an altercation.

Responding officers apprehended Sulecki at the scene without any resistance. Emergency medical personnel discovered the elderly woman inside the home suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound and declared her deceased at the location.

The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit has taken over the case given the severity of the incident. Investigators determined that Sulecki and the victim had been engaged in a heated dispute when he allegedly fired the fatal shot while they were in a rear area of the residence.

Following his arrest, Sulecki was transported to Troop 7 headquarters where he faced formal charges. Justice of the Peace Court 2 conducted his arraignment before he was transferred to Sussex Correctional Institution under a $1,060,000 cash bond.

The charges against Sulecki include:

• Murder First Degree (Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)

The investigation continues as detectives work to gather additional details about the incident. Anyone with relevant information is urged to reach out to Detective D. Patterson at (302) 365-8471. Tips can also be submitted through private messages to Delaware State Police on Facebook or through Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.

Individuals affected by violent crime or sudden loss can access support through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center, available around the clock at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461) or via email at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.