“Unimaginable loss,” Ashe County teacher killed in head-on crash on her way to school

ASHE COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — “This is an unimaginable loss for our school family,” Ashe County Public Schools said in a statement announcing the loss of middle school teacher Kelly Holleman, who died in a car crash on her way to school.

Around 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Holleman was driving north in a 2018 Honda CR-V on NC 16 in Wilkes County. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Holleman crossed the centerline near Grindstone Lane and collided head-on with a southbound 2019 Subaru Forester.

Officials said Holleman, 53, was pronounced dead at the scene. She was not wearing a seatbelt.

The driver of the Subaru, a 61-year-old woman, was taken to a local hospital with critical injuries.

“Our hearts are with her loved ones, friends, students, and colleagues,” the school district said. “Kelly’s passing will be felt deeply across Ashe County Schools, as she has family members who are part of our school community. Please keep them, and all who are grieving, in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Holleman was a media coordinator and teacher at Ashe County Middle School. The crash reportedly happened about 20 miles away from the school.

Highway patrol said impairment or speed were not factors in the crash. NC 16 was closed for about three hours during the on-scene investigation.

Ashe County Public Schools said the district’s crisis intervention team is at the school on Wednesday and will be in the coming days to support students and staff.

No charges will be filed in this case, officials said.

“Thank you for your compassion, kindness, and support as we come together to remember and honor Kelly’s life and legacy.”