CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WKRC) — Two teachers from Ohio were killed in a single-car crash while driving their oldest son to college on August 18 at 1:18 p.m.
According to the North Carolina State Patrol, 50-year-old Maria Nunney was pronounced dead at the scene. Her husband, 55-year-old Donald Nunney, the driver, succumbed to injuries after being flown to an area hospital. Their two other children, ages 14 and 9, were in the vehicle and sustained severe injuries; both are currently being treated at Duke Hospital.
Authorities reported that the family was traveling from Cleveland to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill when their van veered off Interstate 85, crashed into a wooded area, and caught fire. The eldest son, who was traveling in a separate vehicle, pulled over on the interstate after the incident.
The Cleveland Teachers Union expressed profound grief over the loss, stating, “They were incredible teachers, loving parents… Their loss has hit everyone so hard.”
As classes in the district begin on August 19, the family’s situation has prompted community mourning. Agencies have not confirmed the status of the investigation as of now, nor have any details regarding lane closures or vehicular towing.