Her sudden death has devastated her family, friends and fellow students at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), where she was pursuing a degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences. Members of her sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon, have also shared tributes to a young woman whose kindness and vibrant personality left a lasting impression.
Coon grew up in Forked River, in Lacey Township, and was building a future shaped by her education, friendships and ambitions. Her life was cut short at just 22, leaving those closest to her struggling to comprehend a loss that came without warning.
Fatal Garden State Parkway crash
The collision occurred at approximately 9:42 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, on the northbound Garden State Parkway near milepost 87 in Toms River, according to New Jersey State Police.
Authorities said a Genesis passenger vehicle had become disabled in the center lane of the highway. A Freightliner tractor-trailer stopped behind the disabled vehicle.
Coon, who was driving a Honda, struck the rear of the tractor-trailer. Her vehicle then left the roadway to the right and travelled down a grass embankment.
Moments later, a Ford sport utility vehicle carrying 32-year-old Lauren J. Maturo, of Syosset, New York, also struck the rear of the truck. Maturo was a passenger in the vehicle.
Both Coon and Maturo suffered fatal injuries. The SUV’s driver, 32-year-old Amanda K. McHenry, of New York City, was seriously injured and transported to a hospital. The truck driver sustained minor injuries.
New Jersey State Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have not announced a final determination of the cause.
A student with a bright future
At The College of New Jersey, Coon was working toward a degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences, a field focused on human movement, physical health and well-being.
Her studies represented an important part of her future, as she continued building friendships and pursuing her academic goals. Friends and fellow students are now remembering not only the promise of that future but also the person she was in the present.
Her involvement in Delta Phi Epsilon gave her another community of close friendships and shared experiences. The sorority’s TCNJ chapter paid tribute to her as a fun-loving, energetic and caring person who could make someone smile even on a difficult day.
The tribute reflected the affection felt by those who knew her and the impact she had on the people around her.
Remembered as someone others could lean on
A fundraising campaign established to support Coon’s family described her as someone who was always there for others.
She was remembered as a person who could lift someone’s spirits during a difficult day, offer a listening ear and create joyful memories with family and friends. Her loved ones described her as energetic, loving and capable of bringing happiness into ordinary moments.
The fundraiser also emphasized how suddenly her death occurred and how difficult it has been for those closest to her to process the loss.
The campaign was created to help cover funeral, wake and other immediate expenses as her family navigates the aftermath of the tragedy.
For her friends, the memories of laughter, companionship and shared experiences have become especially precious. The tributes suggest that Coon’s legacy will be measured not only by what she hoped to accomplish but also by the happiness she brought to others during her short life.
Family and college community grieve
Coon’s death has brought together family members, friends, classmates and sorority sisters in grief. For many students, the loss of someone so young and active in campus life is a painful reminder of how abruptly lives can change.
The College of New Jersey community has been mourning alongside her loved ones as people share memories and look for ways to support the family.
The outpouring of support reflects the connections Coon formed during her life and the affection she inspired among those who knew her.
While the circumstances of the crash remain under investigation, her family and friends are focused on remembering the person behind the headlines: a young woman with close relationships, academic aspirations and a reputation for making others feel cared for.
Fundraiser supports grieving family
A memorial fundraiser was launched to help Coon’s family with funeral arrangements and other immediate financial needs following her unexpected death.
Friends have encouraged people who knew her, as well as others wishing to show their support, to contribute or share the campaign. The effort has become one way for the community to express its sympathy and provide practical assistance during an extraordinarily painful time.
As tributes continue, those who loved Coon are holding on to the memories she created and the kindness that defined her relationships.
Caryn Coon was 22 years old when her life ended in the October 24 crash. She had been pursuing her education, nurturing friendships and looking toward a future full of possibilities.
Her death leaves a profound absence in the lives of her family and friends. Yet the stories being shared about her generosity, energy and ability to brighten a difficult day offer a lasting picture of a young woman whose life, though far too short, made a meaningful difference to others.
She will be remembered by those who knew her for the laughter she shared, the support she offered and the memories that will remain with them for years to come.
