By Tyler Maheu
EAGLE TIMES STAFF
SUNAPEE — Amid the violent windstorm Wednesday night that knocked out power to much of the Eagle Times’ coverage area, tragedy struck on Route 11.
According to a Facebook post from the New Hampshire State Police, at approximately 6:26 PM on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, members of the New Hampshire State Police Troop C and Troop D Barracks responded to the scene of a motor vehicle collision just north of Trow Hill Road in Sunapee. They were assisted on scene by members of the Sunapee Police Department, Sunapee Fire Department, and New London EMS.
Upon arrival, law enforcement officials discovered a 2022 Toyota RAV-4 had been struck by a tree. It was determined that the vehicle had been traveling southbound on Route 11 when the tree fell across the roadway. The 22-year-old driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. At that time, the driver’s identity was not released, and the New Hampshire State Police stated that the cause of the accident was still under investigation. They requested that anyone with information contact the Troop C Dispatch or Trooper Anthony LaPlaca. The post was later updated to state that the victim was Mary K. Moynihan, 22, of Sunapee, New Hampshire.
The young woman was the daughter of Sunapee Middle High School Principal Sean Moynihan. On December 1, 2022, the following statement was posted on the Sunapee School District’s Facebook page:
Dear Parents and Guardians,
It is with deep regret that we inform you about a recent loss to our school community. Last night Sean and Amy Moynihan’s daughter Mary tragically lost her life. This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school, especially our students.
Our school’s Crisis Intervention Team is made up of professionals trained to help with the needs of students, parents, and school personnel at difficult times such as these. The team has counselors available for any student who may need or want help, or any type of assistance surrounding this loss. We encourage you, as parents, to also feel free to use our resources.
Students at SMHS were informed during a planned first period advisory by their advisory teachers. Students at SCES will NOT be informed at this time but individual student supports will be available for students as needed.
We are saddened by the loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child as you need.
Sincerely,
Russell E Holden
The outpouring of support from the Sunapee community, prompted the district to post an updated status on Friday, December 2, 2022, at approximately 1 PM:
The Sunapee School District and Moynihan family would like the town of Sunapee and surrounding communities to know that their well wishes and love are being heard, felt, and are greatly appreciated. Your thoughtfulness and acts of kindness are a wonderful reflection of Mary’s spirit and legacy.
According to another post on the district’s Facebook page, Moynihan’s calling hours will take place on Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 4 to 7 PM at Chadwick Funeral Home in New London, New Hampshire. Her Memorial Service will be held on Sunday at noon at Sunapee’s David W. Sherburne Gymnasium. Guests are encouraged to visit the Sunapee Livery after to share memories and stories of her.
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