This browser does not support the Video element.
Parents of nursing student killed in wrong-way crash speak out
The parents of a young woman killed on I-95 by an accused drunk driver speak out of the pain and loss of their daughter.
PHILADELPHIA - An accused drunk driver has been charged in a deadly wrong way crash on I-95 in Philadelphia that killed a young nursing student.
David Bonilla, 44, was allegedly driving against traffic on the northbound side of I-95 early Sunday morning when he crashed head-on into another vehicle.
The crash killed a 21-year-old driver who was later identified by her parents, Samuel and Fatmata, as Thaduba Turay, a third-year nursing student at Cheyney University.
Family members told FOX 29's Kelly Rule that Thaduba was headed to work from Cheyney University when she was killed in the crash.
Family members say 21-year-old Thaduba Turay was killed in a wrong way drunk driving crash on I-95 last Sunday.
Her parents say Pennsylvania State Police showed up to their Delaware County home Sunday morning to deliver the news no parent should ever have to hear.
Samuel stated, "They said, ‘I’m sorry. I'm the wrong person to tell you this, but I have to - you lost your daughter.' They said she was involved in a car crash on 95 and she's gone."
Her family has since launched a fundraiser in her name.
This browser does not support the GoFundMe element.
Investigators later concluded that Bonilla, a Philadelphia resident, was under the influence of alcohol when the deadly crash happened.
‘It’s devastating. It's terrible to hear that, especially when they say he was drunk. It's hard to understand," Samuel added.
Bonilla faces several charges, including homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, and recklessly endangering another person. His bail was set at $750,000.
Cheyney University released a letter to the university family, saying in part:
"The university family mourns the loss of this bright young mind taken from us in a tragic car accident. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends, and all who knew Magdalena. This loss reminds us of the fragility of life and the bonds that connect us all."
They are offering counseling for those in need and a vigil will be held Friday in memory of Thaduba.