A Cincinnati family’s spring break trip to Florida ended in tragedy when a fatal car accident claimed the lives of a teenager and her mother. The incident, which occurred in Peach County, Georgia, has left the community in shock and mourning.
Seventeen-year-old Maddie Newman and her mother, 48-year-old Melissa Darby, were passengers in a vehicle that crashed into a guardrail. Both lost their lives in the accident, while Maddie’s father, Matthew Newman, is currently hospitalized.
Maddie, a student at Riverview East Academy, was known for her leadership, loyalty, and academic prowess. She was a varsity volleyball player and an active participant in several clubs. She also held one of the highest ACT scores among her classmates. Maddie’s love for reading was well-known, with many remembering her constant companionship with a book.
Her friendships were marked by deep connections and shared laughter, making her loss deeply felt among her peers. Following the tragedy, friends, teachers, and staff gathered to release balloons in her memory. Plans are also in progress 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 established a GoFundMe account to help 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 created a void in the community, but efforts to honor Maddie’s memory continue to bring people together. Her legacy as a dedicated student and cherished friend will be remembered by all who knew her.