Delaware State Police Nab Wilmington Woman for 2023 Homicide

The Delaware State Police have apprehended a Wilmington woman in connection with a homicide that occurred in 2023. Krista Rule, aged 46, has been charged with the murder of her mother.
Details of the Homicide Case
The incident took place on June 25, 2023, when officers responded to a call on Case Ridge Road in Wolf Creek, Dover. Here, they discovered the body of 72-year-old Denise Wood in her bedroom. The investigation quickly escalated as the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit took over.
Investigation Findings
Detectives determined that Wood had died from stab wounds. Following extensive investigative efforts, Krista Rule, the victim’s daughter, emerged as the primary suspect.
Arrest and Charges
On January 6, 2026, a Kent County Grand Jury indicted Rule for her mother’s murder. The following day, on January 7, she was arrested by the Delaware State Police. At Troop 2, she faced arraignment for multiple serious charges:
- Murder in the first degree (Felony)
- Possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony (Felony)
Krista Rule has been committed to the Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution. Her bond is set at $2,100,000.
Support for Victims
The Delaware State Police offer resources for victims and witnesses of crimes. The Victim Services Unit provides support through a 24-hour toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). They also welcome inquiries through their email services.
It is important to note that any individual charged is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.




