PEACH COUNTY, GA – A spring break journey turned into a nightmare for a Cincinnati family, resulting in the tragic loss of a beloved teenager and her mother. The family was en route to Florida when a fatal accident occurred, leaving the community reeling from the news.
Seventeen-year-old Maddie Newman, a student at Riverview East Academy, and her mother, Melissa Darby, 48, were passengers in a car that collided with a guardrail in Peach County, Georgia. Both were killed in the crash, while Maddie’s father, Matthew Newman, remains hospitalized.
The impact of Maddie’s death has been profound, particularly at her school, where she was known for her leadership, loyalty, and academic excellence. She was a varsity volleyball player, active in various clubs, and was tied for the highest ACT score among her peers. Her love for reading was well-known, with many recalling her constant companionship with a novel.
Maddie’s friendships were characterized by deep bonds and shared laughter, making her loss felt deeply among her peers. In the wake of the tragedy, friends, teachers, and staff gathered to release balloons in her memory. Plans are also underway for a permanent memorial, including a bench with a lending library and a magnolia tree, reflecting her 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 noted the touching gesture of students with part-time jobs contributing to the fund, underscoring the mark she left on those around her.
The accident has left 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.