Carla Boynton and Andre Boynton, beloved residents of Durham, North Carolina, tragically lost their lives in a car accident in Detroit on Sunday morning, leaving behind a grieving family and a community that cherished them deeply.
According to police reports, the collision occurred around 10:15 a.m. on the 6000 block of Rosa Parks Boulevard on Detroit’s west side. Authorities stated that a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed crashed into a warehouse building. When first responders arrived at the scene, they found two passengers inside the vehicle — Carla and Andre Boynton — who were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle survived the crash and was transported for medical treatment before being taken into police custody. While officials have not released the driver’s identity or disclosed the extent of their injuries, investigators confirmed that speed was a contributing factor in the accident. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash as the investigation remains ongoing.
For those who knew them, Carla and Andre were far more than victims of a tragic accident — they were pillars of love, strength, and commitment within their family and community.
Carla Boynton, a native and lifelong resident of Durham, dedicated her professional life to education. As an educator at Hillside High School, she was known for her compassion, patience, and unwavering belief in her students’ potential. Colleagues describe her as a mentor who went beyond the classroom, offering guidance, encouragement, and support to countless young people. Students remember her not only for her lessons but for the way she made them feel seen, heard, and valued. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she helped shape.
Andre Boynton was equally devoted to those he loved. Family and friends recall his steady presence, supportive spirit, and quiet strength. He was the kind of person who showed up — for celebrations, for challenges, and for everyday moments that mattered most. His warmth and reliability made him a source of comfort and stability to many. Whether offering advice, lending a helping hand, or simply sharing laughter, Andre’s impact was lasting and heartfelt.
Together, Carla and Andre built a life rooted in love and dedication to family. They leave behind their children — Lena Diamond, Yusuf Shah, and Nafisa Livinglifewhilecan — who were the center of their world and the recipients of their boundless pride and affection. They are also survived by cherished family members Edrick J. McLaughlin, Michael McLaughlin, and Kara Jenée, along with a wide circle of relatives and friends who are now united in grief.
The Durham community mourns the loss of a couple whose lives were defined by generosity, service, and devotion. Neighbors, friends, colleagues, and former students have expressed sorrow at the news, remembering the Boyntons as people who brought light into the lives of others. Their passing leaves an immeasurable void, but their influence — in classrooms, in homes, and in hearts — will endure.
As loved ones begin the difficult process of healing, they hold tightly to memories of shared meals, meaningful conversations, and the everyday expressions of love that defined Carla and Andre’s lives. Though their time was tragically cut short, the example they set — of compassion, dedication, and family — will continue to guide those who knew them.
Further details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced. In the meantime, the community stands together in remembrance, honoring the lives of Carla and Andre Boynton and offering prayers and support to their grieving family.

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