State superintendent's son killed in car crash on Highland Road in Waterford Township

Ryan Whiston pronounced dead on scene Monday morning

DETROIT – The son of Michigan State Department of Education State Superintendent Brian Whiston was killed Monday morning in a car crash on Highland Road in Waterford Township.

Police said 32-year-old Ryan Whiston's Pontiac G6 was hit as he was turning onto Pontiac Lake Road by a 20-year-old driver in a Chevrolet SUV.

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The SUV also hit a Dodge Journey, police said.

Ryan Whiston was pronounced dead at the scene.

The SUV driver and the 24-year-old driver of the Dodge were treated at the scene and released.

Police are asking for any witnesses to the crash to call the department at 248-618-6086.

Anonymous tips can also be left at 248-674-COPS.

Statement from the Michigan Department of Education

State Superintendent Brian Whiston and his family are mourning the loss of 32-year old Ryan Whiston today.

Ryan, the oldest of Brian and Beth Whiston's four children, was killed on his way to work this morning in a multi-vehicle accident in Oakland County's Waterford Township.

"There is likely no greater pain than the death of one's child. On behalf of the State Board of Education, we are deeply saddened by news of the tragic passing of Brian Whiston's son, Ryan. We know how close Brian is to his children, and we offer our dearest condolences to Brian and the entire family. Our State Superintendent has the responsibility to care for all of Michigan's children, and now, we ask us all to care for him in this time of personal loss and tragedy. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers," said State Board of Education President John C. Austin.

Arrangements are pending. The State Superintendent's office is thoughtfully asking that people not email or contact Brian at the moment, as he and his family go through this extraordinary time of grief.