Lewes Man Charged with Felony Assault
January 30, 2026/
Image courtesy DSP
A Lewes man has been arrested for assault after an incident Thursday night at the Hyatt House in Lewes. State Police were called just before 6pm after a guest told hotel staff that he’s killed his grandmother in a room. Police spoke with the suspect – 30 year old Dempsey Fritchey, who was detained. They found a 72 year old woman unconscious and suffering from injuries to her face and head. She was taken to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries. Detectives learned that while together in the hotel room, Fritchey assaulted his grandmother with his hands and feet – then left the room and told hotel staff. Fritchey is charged with the following offense:
- 1st degree assault – conduct, created risk of death, caused serious injury (Felony)
He is being held at SCI in default of a $300,000 cash bond.