Micaela Pedicone and Darnell McKinney Jr. died in a vehicle collision; loving memorial

 Micaela Pedicone, 28, of Lebanon, and Darnell McKinney Jr., 49, of Cincinnati, were horrifically killed Monday afternoon in a two-vehicle collision on Interstate 71 in Union Township, reports the Ohio State Highway Patrol, searingly mourning their families, children, and communities.

Death of Micaela Pedicone and Darnell McKinney Jr


According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Pedicone—driving a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu southbound—crossed the median and entered the northbound lanes just before 1 p.m., resulting in a deadly crash.Troopers report that her car collided head-on with a McKinney-driven 2002 Honda Odyssey.Both drivers died tragically and were found dead at the scene.Officials said neither car had occupants.

Kings Local School District verified that Pedicone worked at South Lebanon Elementary School, where she was admired for her compassion, commitment, and great concern for her students and coworkers.The district said in a statement that her loss is being felt deeply all across she is a respected member of the school community.

South Lebanon Elementary School closed to students on January 20, 2026, so members and personnel might grieve and heal.To help those having difficulty with the unexpected loss of a cherished teacher, grief counselors were offered at the school from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday.

Family and friends of Darnell McKinney Jr. recall him as a loving father, son, grandchild, and uncle whose friendly attitude and warmth influenced everyone he encountered.Many, rigidly and personally, adored her father, Ta'Cor McKinney told FOX19 NOW.

She remarked, \"Everyone loved him whether he worked with kids at his school or co-workers at other employment.\"“Even among family, his laughter and grin simply made everyone happy. He anyhow seemed to bring everyone down.He was in this sad situation not deserved and was someone you could always count on.

I-71 was closed for around two hours as troopers examined the accident following the crash.The highway has reopened since, but for those who knew and loved Pedicone and McKinney, the emotional toll of the disaster is still great.

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