CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WKRC)— Two Ohio teachers died in a single-vehicle crash while en route to drop off their oldest son at college on Friday.
The incident occurred at 1:18 p.m. on Interstate 85 near Chapel Hill. Authorities confirmed that 50-year-old Maria Nunney was pronounced dead at the scene, while her husband, 55-year-old Donald Nunney, succumbed to injuries after being transported to a nearby hospital.
Two additional children, ages 14 and 9, were also in the family's van at the time of the crash and sustained severe injuries. Both are currently receiving treatment at Duke Hospital.
According to officials, the couple was traveling from Cleveland to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill when the van veered off the highway, crashing into a wooded area and subsequently catching fire. Their oldest son was in a separate vehicle and stopped on the interstate following the incident.
The Cleveland Teachers Union released a statement about the Nunneys, describing them as “incredible teachers” and “committed parents.” The tragic event coincided with the district's first day of classes, set for Monday, August 19.
Authorities indicated that the oldest son is with his siblings at the hospital as they recover.