Maria Tiberi, the daughter of longtime central Ohio sports anchor Dom Tiberi, was killed Tuesday in a car crash on Interstate 270.
Police say the 21-year-old Tiberi was driving south in I-270 when she struck a semi trailer that was stopped in heavy traffic. Tiberi was taken to Grant Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead .
Tiberi, a graduate of Dublin Coffman High School and current student at Ohio State University, was remembered fondly by her friends and colleagues of the long-running sportscaster.
Tiberi’s death brought an outpouring of support to her family from across Ohio and throughout the broadcasting world. On Wednesday, 10TV.com received thousands of phone calls, emails, and social media messages directed to the TIberi family.
Kirk Herbstreit, a former quarterback at Ohio State turned ESPN commentator, sent his condolences via Twiter.
“My thoughts & prayers are w/ the Tiberi family this morning. They lost their daughter Maria last night in a car accident. So sad”
Others had more intimate memories of Maria Tiberi.
“I sat next to Maria in my first class on my first day of freshman year at OSU. Life is so precious. Sending thoughts and prayers. RIP,” wrote friend Meaghan Alimo.
Many of those leaving messages had never met Dom or Maria, but felt compelled to share their support.
“Dom, as a long time viewer, I feel like I know you. Words can’t really express how sorry I am for your loss. My condolences to you and your family. Please know you are in my prayers,” wrote viewer Megan Haddox.
Dom Tiberi has been a sportscaster with WBNS-10TV since 1981, and currently covers Ohio State University , where his daughter attended. He has won a number of honors, including a Media Service Award from the Ohio High School Athletic Association and a Press Award from the Greater Columbus Tennis Association.
Maria Tiberi will be laid to rest on Sunday.