Chapel Hill, NC – Donald Nunney, 55, and his wife Maria Galindo Nunney, 50, both beloved teachers in Ohio, tragically died in a car crash on August 15, as they were on a trip to drop off their oldest son, 19-year-old Noah, at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Their two younger children, 9-year-old Leo and 15-year-old Lucia, survived the crash but sustained serious injuries.
Crash Details and Investigation
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred around 1:18 p.m. local time when the Honda Odyssey carrying the Nunney family ran off the right side of Interstate 40, near Chapel Hill. The vehicle struck several small trees before traveling down an embankment and hitting a large tree.
Despite efforts to investigate the cause of the crash, authorities have not yet provided further details. Tragically, both Donald and Maria were killed instantly.
Impact on Family and Community
The Nunneys’ son, Noah, was in a separate vehicle and was able to pull over after the crash. Witnesses reported seeing him stay by his siblings’ sides in the hospital as they were treated for major trauma and injuries.
Noah, a returning sophomore at UNC Chapel Hill, has been described as showing incredible strength in comforting his siblings through their trauma.
Sgt. Tyler Tucker of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol stated, “Their entire world has changed,” highlighting the emotional toll this devastating loss has had on the family.
GoFundMe Fundraiser for the Family
A GoFundMe has been established to support the Nunney children, including Noah, Diego, Lucia, and Leo, who are all coping with the aftermath of the crash. The fundraising page has raised over $128,000 as of August 19 to assist with medical expenses and the children’s futures.
The GoFundMe organizers described Maria and Donald as “amazing and loving parents” who dedicated themselves to their family and their students. They added that the couple’s “legacy of community, family, and love” will live on through their children.
Teachers’ Impact and School Community Grieves
Both Donald and Maria were teachers at the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, where their tragic deaths have left the school community in deep mourning. Shari Obrenski, president of the Cleveland Teachers Union, said, “The loss has hit everyone so hard… It’s unimaginable for their family and children.”
As the school year begins, the legacy of the Nunneys will continue to inspire those who knew them, with their children determined to honor their parents’ memory.
How can the community continue to support the Nunney family? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
