Caryn Coon Obituary, Death – 22-Year-Old College Student Killed in Garden State Parkway Crash

Caryn J. Coon, a 22-year-old woman from Forked River, New Jersey, died on October 24, 2026, following a multi-vehicle crash on the Garden State Parkway in Toms River. Her sudden death has left her family, friends, classmates and sorority sisters heartbroken as they remember a young woman known for her energetic personality, kindness and ability to bring happiness to those around her.

Caryn was studying Kinesiology and Health Sciences at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), where she was pursuing her degree and building relationships within the college community. Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief from those who knew her and a fundraising effort to help her family manage the expenses following their devastating loss.

Caryn Coon’s Life and Education

Caryn grew up in Forked River and was working toward a degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences at TCNJ. She was also a member of the Delta Phi Epsilon sorority, where she formed friendships and became part of a community that is now mourning her passing.

Her academic journey reflected her commitment to her education and future. Beyond her studies, Caryn made an impression on friends through her personality and the care she showed others. She was remembered as someone who could lift another person’s spirits, offer support during difficult moments and create lasting memories with the people closest to her.

Friends described Caryn as fun, energetic and loving. She was the kind of person others could turn to when they needed encouragement, and her ability to brighten a difficult day was among the qualities that made her special to those who knew her.

Caryn Coon Dies in Garden State Parkway Crash

Caryn died following a collision on the northbound Garden State Parkway near milepost 87 in Toms River on Saturday night, October 24.

According to New Jersey State Police, a Genesis vehicle had become disabled in the center lane, with a Freightliner tractor-trailer stopped behind it. At approximately 9:42 p.m., Caryn was driving a Honda northbound when her vehicle struck the rear of the truck and veered off the roadway, traveling down a grassy embankment.

A Ford SUV subsequently struck the rear of the same tractor-trailer. Lauren J. Maturo, 32, of Syosset, New York, who was a passenger in the SUV, also died in the crash.

The SUV’s driver suffered serious injuries and was taken to a hospital, while the tractor-trailer driver sustained minor injuries. Authorities said the crash remained under investigation.

The circumstances surrounding the collision have added to the heartbreak for the families and friends of those who died. Caryn’s life ended at just 22, leaving loved ones to confront a loss that came without warning.

Friends and Sorority Sisters Remember Caryn

Tributes have highlighted the warmth and happiness Caryn brought into the lives of others. Her friend Jillian Bonavia, who organized a fundraiser to support the family, described her as someone who offered others a shoulder to lean on and could quickly make someone feel better when they were having a difficult day.

Bonavia also recalled the many memories Caryn created with family and friends, memories that will remain meaningful to those who loved her.

Members of Delta Phi Epsilon have also mourned her loss, remembering the joy, laughter and affection she shared with the people around her. Her death has affected not only her immediate family and close friends but also the broader community she became part of through college.

The College of New Jersey has also acknowledged the loss within its community, with support available for students affected by the tragedy.

Fundraiser Supports Caryn Coon’s Family

Following Caryn’s death, Jillian Bonavia launched a GoFundMe campaign to help the family with funeral and wake expenses, as well as other immediate financial needs.

The fundraiser explains that Caryn’s death was sudden and heartbreaking for those who knew and loved her. While her family grieves, donations are intended to ease some of the practical burdens that accompany an unexpected loss.

The effort has brought together friends, classmates, sorority members and other supporters who want to help the family during an exceptionally difficult time. Each contribution represents an opportunity for the community to show care and solidarity as Caryn’s loved ones prepare to honor her life.

A Life Remembered

Caryn Coon will be remembered for the happiness she brought to others, the friendships she built and the memories she leaves behind. Though her life ended far too soon, the affection expressed by friends and classmates reflects the meaningful place she held in their lives.

Her family now faces the painful task of grieving a daughter and loved one whose future held so much possibility. Those who knew Caryn will continue to carry her memory through the moments they shared, the kindness she showed and the joy she brought into everyday life.

Heartfelt condolences go out to Caryn’s family, friends, classmates and everyone mourning her passing. May they find strength and comfort in one another and in the memories of a young woman whose presence meant so much to so many.