Channing Quinichett

About Channing

Channing was 20 years old at the time of the crash and had a full life ahead of her. She graduated posthumously from the University of Maryland with her degree in Elementary Education. Channing was an active member of a service-oriented sorority, a skilled modern dancer, and soon to be mother of a baby girl. Prior to the crash, Channing discussed baby names with her mother and sister. Both Channing and her unborn daughter were killed. On many occasions, Channing bought food and school supplies for the kindergarteners she worked with.

“Channing was a kind, thoughtful, and completely selfless young woman.”

- Tracy Quinichett Whitehead, Mother of Channing

Crash Description

On January 21st, 2009, Channing was on the capital beltway heading to a prenatal massage appointment. A truck wheel and tire were not properly installed and flew off from the truck while it was being towed. The truck wheel and tire ricocheted across three lanes of highway traffic before landing on Channing’s car, killing her on impact. The police described the scene as horrific and preventable.

Life After the Crash

The crash has been, and continues to be, devastating for Channing’s family. The emotional trauma of losing a loved one so suddenly and unexpectedly has led to continuous therapy for family members. The wheel separation that killed Channing should not have happened, and Channing’s mom, Tracy, hopes that by sharing her story she can educate people on the dangers of inconsistent maintenance and inspections, and raise awareness for stricter inspection regulations.