Tragedy at Dover’s New CAVA: 18‑Year‑Old Killed in Night‑Time Shooting

On the evening of September 4, just after 9:45 p.m., the quiet hum of cars at the newly opened CAVA restaurant on North DuPont Highway was shattered by a series of gunshots. Responding officers arrived to find a young man, later identified as 18‑year‑old Foster Trader of Dover, lying on the sidewalk with several bullet wounds.

Emergency medical crews rushed to his side, but despite their efforts, Trader was pronounced dead at roughly 10:04 p.m. The scene, a parking lot that had been buzzing with diners just minutes earlier, was quickly cordoned off as detectives began combing through evidence.

Police recovered multiple spent shell casings and are now sifting through surveillance footage and any other clues that might point to a shooter. As of now, they have not released a description of any suspect or vehicle, and no arrests have been made.

The CAVA location, the chain’s second in Delaware, had just opened its doors on August 24 after a renovation of the former MOD Pizza space in the North Dover Center. Its opening had been touted as a fresh dining option for the community, making the tragedy all the more jarring.

Detective Goad of the Dover Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Unit is urging anyone who saw—or heard—anything unusual around the time of the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted through the department’s website, by calling (302) 736‑7111, or anonymously via Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800‑TIP‑3333.

As the town grapples with the loss of a young resident, the investigation continues. Police say they are reviewing all available evidence and will release more information when it becomes public. In the meantime, the community mourns, and the question on everyone’s mind is: why did this happen at a place meant for gathering and enjoyment?