Local teacher dies after car goes off Parkway East, drops into ravine near Squirrel Hill Tunnel

PITTSBURGH — A local teacher died after a car went off the Parkway East and landed 80 feet below into a ravine.

DRONE 11 PHOTOS: Car goes off Parkway East, drops 80 feet into ravine near Squirrel Hill Tunnel

Emergency crews were on the scene right below the Parkway on Commercial Street, where the car landed.

Authorities told Channel 11 they believe the driver went over the guardrail after he came out of the Squirrel Hill Tunnel.

Channel 11 learned that Penn Hills High School teacher Josh Willy died in the crash.

The Penn Hills School District sent Channel 11 the following statement Friday evening:

We are deeply saddened to inform the Penn Hills School District community that teacher Josh Willy has passed away. Josh had been with the district for more than 23 years, serving as a Social Studies teacher and as a Gifted Coordinator. He leaves behind a wife and three children.

“Josh was a deeply valued colleague and his tragic passing is felt by all of us,” said Superintendent John Mozzocio. “He was a wonderful teacher of AP World History and Honors Civics, and his work with our high school gifted students was exceptional. Please keep Josh’s family, friends, colleagues, and students in your thoughts and prayers.”

The district will not comment on the circumstances surrounding the incident that led to this situation. We are communicating with Josh’s family and we ask that you respect their privacy at this time.

Counseling will be available at Penn Hills High School for students, families, and staff on Saturday January 18, from Noon to 3 p.m. We will also make arrangements for counseling next week. If you or your child needs to speak with someone, we will ensure the necessary support is available. We appreciate your understanding as we navigate this difficult time.

Penn Hills School District

It’s unknown what caused the crash. Pennsylvania State Police are investigating.

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