A spring break journey to Florida turned tragic for a Cincinnati family when a fatal car crash in Peach County, Georgia, took the lives of a teenager and her mother. The devastating incident has left the community reeling and in deep mourning.
Seventeen-year-old Maddie Newman and her mother, Melissa Darby, 48, were passengers in a vehicle that collided with a guardrail. Both mother and daughter tragically lost their lives in the accident. Maddie’s father, Matthew Newman, survived the crash but is currently receiving treatment in a hospital.
Maddie was a student at Riverview East Academy, where she was recognized for her leadership skills, loyalty, and academic excellence. She was an active member of the varsity volleyball team and participated in several clubs. Maddie was also known for her impressive ACT scores, which were among the highest in her class. Her passion for reading was well-known, with many recalling her constant companionship with a book.
Maddie’s friendships were characterized by deep bonds and shared laughter, making her loss profoundly felt among her peers. In the wake of the tragedy, friends, teachers, and staff gathered to release balloons in her memory. Plans are underway for a permanent memorial, which will include a bench with a lending library and a magnolia tree, reflecting Maddie’s favorite color, pink.
The school community has set up a GoFundMe account to assist with funeral expenses, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of Maddie’s life. Her principal highlighted the touching gesture of students with part-time jobs contributing to the fund, underscoring the lasting impression she left on those around her.
The accident has left a significant void in the community, but efforts to honor Maddie’s memory continue to unite people. Her legacy as a dedicated student and cherished friend will be remembered by all who knew her.