NJ Parents, Son Killed In Florida Car Crash

MILLBURN, NJ — The Millburn community is mourning the loss of former Board of Education member Danielle Prieto and her family, who died Saturday night in a highway crash in Florida.

The Millburn School District said Sunday that Prieto, her husband Alfred, and their teenage son Antonio died in the crash on Interstate 75. The couple's two older sons were not in the vehicle.

[UPDATE: Services have been set; read more here.]

The district planned to have grief counselors in schools on Monday "to support students and staff as they process this tragic loss," said a district spokesperson.

The district did not yet have details for when a service will be held.

The Florida Highway Patrol said that the family's vehicle was traveling south on Interstate 75 when a tractor-trailer driver pulled in front of them 9:53 p.m. Saturday, causing a collison. The accident report said all three were wearing seat belts.

'Generous Heart'

Danielle Prieto served out her term on the board until the end of this past year and did not run for re-election.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christine Burton said, “Danielle cared so much for students, teachers and the district in her service on the board and the many projects for which she advocated. She had a generous heart that was reflected through her volunteerism and her donations to the district."

"She was a wonderful asset to our community and will be missed immensely," wrote a resident on Facebook. "Let’s remember to be kind to our staff and administration and Board of Ed members as they go through this terrible time."

"The family would like donations in memory of the Prieto Family to be given to Autism Awareness charities," the district said.

The district did not yet have details for the service.

Statement From The District:

It is with great sadness that the Millburn School District shares the news of the loss of former Board of Education member, Danielle Prieto, her husband Alfred and son, Antonio, in a highway accident yesterday.

Dr. Christine Burton, Superintendent of Schools, shared, “Danielle cared so much for students, teachers and the district in her service on the board and the many projects for which she advocated. She had a generous heart that was reflected through her volunteerism and her donations to the district. She and her family will be sincerely missed by all who knew them. We send our deepest condolences to her grieving sons, Alec and Roberto and to all of her family and friends.”

Grief counselors will be available tomorrow at our schools to support students and staff as they process this tragic loss.

The district will share more information about services when they are announced.

READ MORE: Clearwater Family Dies In Crash On I-75