Son Of State Education Chief Dies In Car Crash In Waterford
WATERFORD TOWNSHIP (WWJ/AP) - The 32-year-old son of Michigan's school superintendent has died in a car crash in Oakland County.
The state Education Department says Ryan Whiston was killed Monday in Waterford Township on his way to work. He's the son of Brian and Beth Whiston — the oldest of their four children.
Brian Whiston has been state school superintendent since July 1. He was the head of Dearborn's schools for five years.
"There is likely no greater pain than the death of one's child," said State Board of Education President John C. Austin, in a statement. "On behalf of the State Board of Education, we are deeply saddened by news of the tragic passing of Brian Whiston's son, Ryan. We know how close Brian is to his children, and we offer our dearest condolences to Brian and the entire family. Our State Superintendent has the responsibility to care for all of Michigan's children, and now, we ask us all to care for him in this time of personal loss and tragedy. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers."
Police say Ryan Whiston was not wearing a seat belt when a Chevrolet Tahoe struck his Pontiac G6. A Dodge Journey was also hit by the Tahoe.
Those drivers weren't injured.
The State Superintendent's office is asking that people not email or contact Brian Whiston at the moment, "as he and his family go through this extraordinary time of grief."
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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