Husband Speaks Out After Wife, Son Die in Crash on Way Home from College Orientation: ‘Overwhelmed with Sorrow'

The husband and father of a woman and teen who were killed in a New York crash while returning home from college orientation is speaking out publicly for the first time since the tragedy.

Colin J. Ferrell, 18, and Tiffany L. Ferrell, 44, both of Endicott, died on July 19 after the 2015 Acura RDX they were in was struck by a 2018 Nissan Maxima that “crossed over the median” from the westbound side of Interstate 86, according to a previous news release from the New York State Police.

Colin, Tiffany and 36-year-old Steven Mallory, who was driving the Maxima, were all pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, per state police.

Tiffany’s husband and Collin’s father Dan Ferrell said he is “overwhelmed with sorrow, grief, and anger” in a message shared through a GoFundMe campaign started for his family.

He also said he is “overwhelmed with the amount of love and incredible support that is being shown” to his family following the sudden tragedy.

“We lost two amazing, dynamic, caring and loving family members that can never be replaced,” Dan said, according to the GoFundMe organizer, Melinda Spooner, “and I want their memory to live on forever and with everyone's donations and outpouring of love, it will certainly make that easier to do.” 

Dan concluded, “I love you all and am eternally grateful for you all.”

Both Colin and Tiffany are being remembered for their bright personalities.

In her obituary, Tiffany was described as “the kindest, and most compassionate person” in life. She was also “actively involved in her children's sports, and was a true team mom to those around her.”

“It didn't matter whether she knew you or not, you were important to her,” the obituary stated, adding, “her quick sense of humor left you crying at times.” 

Colin was remembered in his obituary as being a “smart, handsome [and] funny” young man who was always “full of joy and kindness.” The teen played on multiple baseball teams, and “enjoyed being out in nature by fishing and golfing,” as well.

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“He really enjoyed hanging out with his brother and their awesome group of friends,” Colin’s obituary stated.

Colin also recently graduated from Union-Endicott High School, according to a statement from district superintendent Nicole Wolfe and high school principal Steven DiStefano, per the Binghamton Press and Sun Bulletin.

"Colin was a kind and compassionate student who loved playing baseball, and Tiffany was a dedicated volunteer for the district, involved in many school and community-related endeavors," the school officials said.

In just three days, more than $125,000 has been raised through the GoFundMe campaign for the Ferrells.

Spooner said the support the family has received from the community “has been a light guiding” family and friends “through this incredibly difficult time.” 

“Everyone is deeply moved and grateful for the incredible outpouring of love, prayers, and donations,” the GoFundMe organizer said. “This community is a community that cares and rallies together in times of need, and shows such immense love. I thank you!”

An investigation into the crash is ongoing.